Leadership Standards of Excellence: A Qualitative Case Study of One High-Performing, High-Poverty Philadelphia High School

Leadership Standards of Excellence: A Qualitative Case Study of One High-Performing, High-Poverty Philadelphia High School

Priscilla J. DuBose | 2022

Abstract

Julia R. Masterman has been one of the best-performing public secondary schools in Philadelphia and across the nation. Its high performance has exceeded expectations despite the challenges faced by the school, especially the location. The school is in a high-poverty neighborhood. This research, therefore, examined the impact of leadership on the school’s performance. The literature review section shows the direct correlation between leadership and achieving the set goals and objectives. Some of the most used leadership theories in high schools and the education sector, in general, include authentic leadership theory and the theory of academic performance. The qualitative study collected data using semi structured interview questions. Twelve participants answered six questions each. These participants were from the leader and nonleader levels: six from each group. After analyzing the data using NVivo software and the thematic data analysis method, 25 codes were identified, which were incorporated within 14 themes. These 14 themes concentrated on various issues, including the importance of prioritizing the process, supporting the teachers, collaborating and communicating effectively with the community and parents, and optimizing the school’s resources. All these were made possible by the leadership of Julia R. Masterman. The research is, however, not foolproof, as exhibited by the identified limitations. These limitations are a guiding factor to the recommendations given for future research.