Journal of Educational Leadership in Action
Abstract
The purpose of this qualitative study was to discover the perceived benefits and challenges of preparing principal candidates for school district/university partnerships. Data analysis from focus group interviews revealed both benefits and challenges. Themes that were perceived as benefits were: 1) increased opportunities for graduate students in educational leadership preparation programs, 2) integration of field-based experiences, 3) a supportive learning environment, and 4) networking opportunities. Conversely, challenging themes were: 1) need for school district liaison, 2) better collaboration between school district/university partnerships, 3) employment consideration for graduates of educational leadership preparation programs, and 4) better school facilities and equipment. The study concluded that school district/university partnerships are needed in order to connect theory and practice to develop well-rounded educational leaders.
Recommended Citation
Garcia, Alejandro; Manchaca, Velma; and Guerra, Frederico
(2020)
"School Districts and a University Principal Preparation Program Partnership: A Cohort Model,"
Journal of Educational Leadership in Action: Vol. 6:
Iss.
3, Article 4.
DOI: https://doi.org/10.62608/2164-1102.1015
Available at:
https://digitalcommons.lindenwood.edu/ela/vol6/iss3/4
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Comments
Dr. Alejandro Garcia is an associate professor in the Organization and School Leadership department at the University of Texas Rio Grande Valley. Dr. Garcia's administrative experiences include being Technology/Library Services Coordinator for Mission and Edinburg school districts. Dr. Garcia’s research publications and interest cover Technology leadership, teaching in Higher Education and Distance Learning.
Dr. Velma Menchaca is a Professor in the Organization and School Leadership department at the University of Texas Rio Grande Valley. Dr. Menchaca’s research interests include teachers as mentors and principals as mentors. Her specialization is in the areas of multicultural education, sociocultural issues, culturally relevant content, and curriculum development.
Dr. George Padilla is an assistant professor in the Organization and School Leadership department at the University of Texas Rio Grande Valley. Dr. Padilla’s research interests focus on the development, practice, and effects of successful school leadership. He hopes his research and teaching at UTRGV helps produce greater school leaders who will develop learning communities where every child can learn and develop to his/her maximum personal potential.
Dr. Federico Guerra is an Associate Professor in the Organization and School Leadership department at the University of Texas Rio Grande Valley. Dr. Guerra teaches in the master’s program with teaching interests in the areas of effective educational leadership, attention deficit hyperactivity disorder, superintendency, alternative education programs and teacher instruction and effectiveness.