Date of Award
5-1998
Culminating Project Type
Thesis
Degree Name
Specialist Certificate
Department
Educational Administration and Higher Education
College
School of Education
First Advisor
Elaine Leach
Second Advisor
Judee G. McMullen
Third Advisor
Joan Kellett
Keywords and Subject Headings
Site Based Decision Making, Community Involvement
Abstract
The purpose of this study was to examine the effect of various factors on site-based decision-making in Minnesota's elementary schools. The opinions of principals in rural, suburban, and urban public school settings, as well as site observations by the researcher and a review of pertinent documents were obtained.
The review of literature presented various forms site-based decision-making may take in public schools today. Expected outcomes and areas of decision-making were explored. A collection of nationwide surveys of elementary principals' perceptions of the effectiveness of site-based decision-making were reviewed to ascertain barriers to its successful implementation.
The sample included three elementary principals from rural, suburban, and urban Minnesota elementary schools that received a restructuring grant from the Minnesota Department of Education. The purpose of the grant was to examine practices and organizational structures for the improvement of student achievement of educational outcomes through school site-based decision-making.
The conclusions reached were:
1. The level of trust at all three sites either positively or negatively impacted the effectiveness of site-based decision-making.
2. The knowledge of group process skills at all three sites either positively or negatively impacted the effectiveness of site-based decision-making.
3. The results supported findings of previous research on the positive outcomes achieved in the areas of community involvement and student morale through site-based decision-making. Student achievement did not increase.
The following recommendations were made:
1. Administrators and school boards should assess the existing level of trust between the various stakeholders in their educational community before initiating site-based decision-making.
2. While implementing site-based decision-making, the decision-making matrix may need to be gradually phased in. Otherwise, issues directly related to student achievement may be put "on hold" until the council has developed the necessary group skills.
3. The council must decide how a high level of expertise will be maintained when council members resign and others are elected.
4. One parent on the site council does not contribute as much to the process as if there are a number of parents.
5. Administrators should consider additional ways to provide compensation for council members so they do not "burn out" and are able to maintain their membership over an extended period of time.
6. When structuring the by-laws, consider scheduling meetings often enough for members to build a working relationship, receive background information, discuss issues, and make informed decisions.
7. All council members should have an equal vote with either the principal or board having the ability to veto decisions that are not in alignment with state rules or mandates.
Recommended Citation
Kearn, Barbara, "Factors Affecting Site-Based Decision-Making in Elementary Schools" (1998). Culminating Projects in Education Administration and Leadership. 112.
https://repository.stcloudstate.edu/edad_etds/112
