Date of Award
1-2025
Culminating Project Type
Dissertation
Styleguide
apa
Degree Name
Educational Administration and Leadership, K-12: Ed.D.
Department
Educational Administration and Higher Education
College
School of Education
First Advisor
Davis Lund
Second Advisor
Frances Kayona
Third Advisor
Steve Emerson
Fourth Advisor
Antwan Harris
Creative Commons License
This work is licensed under a Creative Commons Attribution-Noncommercial-No Derivative Works 4.0 License.
Keywords and Subject Headings
cellphones, building-wide policy, secondary administrator, School Cellphone Policy, Cellphone Policy Implimentation
Abstract
This qualitative study explores leadership behaviors and decision-making from the perspective of secondary administrators as they develop, implement, and evaluate building-wide cellphone policy processes and procedures. The increasing presence of cellphones in schools has prompted administrators and district leaders to develop policies that balance engagement and the challenges of cellphone management. Key findings highlight the influence of external guidance, consistency in enforcement, and collaborative decision-making on policy development. Administrators emphasized the importance of communication with stakeholders, professional development sessions, and flexible strategies for policy adaptation. The study also highlights importance of fostering trust, school climate, and proactive communication to ensure successful outcomes. Insights gained from this research offer best practices for administrators seeking to create equitable, impactful, and sustainable cellphone policies in secondary education settings.
Recommended Citation
Vos, Beth, "Secondary building administrators' perspectives and perceptions around processes and procedures when implementing a building-wide cellphone policy." (2025). Culminating Projects in Education Administration and Leadership. 129.
https://repository.stcloudstate.edu/edad_etds/129
Comments/Acknowledgements
Completing this dissertation has been a journey filled with learning, growth, and support from many individuals who have contributed to its success. First, I would like to express my deepest gratitude to my doctoral professors, Dr. Eller and Dr. Kayona, for their dedication to preparing me for this significant milestone. Dr. Kayona, demonstrated remarkable consistency in providing honest yet supportive guidance throughout the dissertation process from start to finish. I also want to extend my gratitude to my fellow classmates for doing the journey alongside me and becoming some of my closest humans.
I am also profoundly thankful to Dr. Lund for stepping in to support me as my chair partway through this journey. His willingness to meet with me on his days off, as well as during evenings and weekends, speaks volumes about his commitment to his students. His honesty, expertise, and genuine passion for the field and this topic were a source of motivation and inspiration for me. I also want to show gratitude for Dr. Harris and Dr. Emerson for helping me meet this milestone.
To a dear friend I met 5 years ago, thank you for planting the seed of self-belief within me and refueling my dream of earning a doctorate. Your encouragement and motivation have left an indelible mark on my journey, and for that, I am forever grateful.
Finally, I extend my heartfelt appreciation to the administrators who contributed to this research. Their willingness to share their perspectives and experiences was critical to this study’s success. Educational leaders hold incredible power to effect change, and I was deeply moved by the enthusiasm and reflection they brought to this process. The appreciation and trust they extended to me throughout this journey reinforced the importance of collaboration and professional growth within the field.
Dedication
This dissertation is lovingly dedicated to my late husband, Rich Vos, whose passion for professional growth and lifelong learning continues to inspire me. Rich instilled in me the belief that education is one of the most valuable assets a person can possess. His encouragement to “add tools to my toolbox” has remained a guiding force in my life. Since his sudden passing, it has been a challenging journey, but his memory has been a source of strength.
To my children, Zoey Vos and Clay Vos, you have been my light through it all. Being a single mother for the past 12 years has been a rollercoaster, but every day with you is purposeful and filled with love. Watching you grow into remarkable young adults who contribute to your community fills me with pride. I am so honored to be your mom and appreciate the additional support during the doctorial journey.
To my family, especially my parents, Bill and Bev Lieser, thank you for the invaluable lessons I learned growing up on our family farm. Those experiences shaped my work ethic, resilience, and determination, all of which have been essential to both my personal and professional growth. To my siblings, their spouses, and my nieces and nephews—your unwavering support, love, and encouragement have meant the world to me. Thank you for being my cheerleaders and for stepping in to support Zoey and Clay during the long days and weeks I dedicated to this journey.