Date of Award

1-1-2011

Document Type

Campus Access Dissertation

Department

Educational Leadership and Policies

Sub-Department

Educational Administration

First Advisor

Edward Cox

Abstract

The purpose of this study was to assess the longevity of superintendents in South Carolina since the implementation of its accountability model as legislated by `No Child Left Behind' and explore the relationship between superintendent tenure and key factors: 1) district accountability status; 2) district poverty index; 3) district size as defined by enrollment; 4) district per pupil expenditure; and 5) administrator experience. Superintendent tenure averages were computed for each district for the period of 2001 to 2010 for comparison within this time frame (Monteich & Hallums,1989; Anderson, 2006; Byrd et.al., 2006; Danitz, 2000; Farkas et.al., 2001; First, 2004; Fullan, 2005; Glass, 2010; Glass et.al, 2000; Khan, 2006; Kiser, 2010; Kranz, 2004; MacDonald, 2004; Mask, 2004; Pounder et.al, 2003; Waters & Marzano, 2006; Natkin, et. al, 2002; Perry, 2008). This was an explanatory study in South Carolina. Data were collected for the key factors identified and comparisons were made using paired combinations of these data sets. Relationships between these factors and relationships between each of the factors and superintendent tenure were examined. Trends and patterns were delineated through data comparisons and statistical calculations, depicted using descriptive statistics and statistical analyses, and discussed in the context of relevant past and current research. The state average of 4.81 years for this period is significantly lower than the national average of 6-7 years. The pattern of service indicated that only superintendents in place prior to or at the onset of the accountability system, achieved longevity equal to expected averages.

Rights

© 2011, Kathie Melinda Greer

Download

Share

COinS