Abstract

This study of rural schools in North Dakota, South Dakota, Nebraska, and Kansas focused on self reported characteristics of secondary school principals including their leadership styles. A total of 592 surveys were mailed to the identified population and returned by 462. It was found that while Great Plains rural principals envision themselves as instructional leaders, they spend a majority of the day in general management while teaching for an average of 35.6% of the day. They also are concerned, as leaders, more often about task completion than about school climate or individual needs. No substantial differences between male and female rural principals, either experienced or inexperienced, were found in general activities or leadership style. It is concluded that the Great Plains rural principals perceive themselves in one manner but often act in another manner. Time pressures, teaching assignments, and a multitude of administrative duties probably explain this schism.

How to Cite:

Chance, E., (1989) “The Great Plains Rural Secondary Principal: Aspirations and Reality”, Journal of Research in Rural Education 6(1), 7–11.

Rights: Copyright