Public School Superintendents' Viewpoints on the Leadership Strategies Perceived to Guide the Culture and Climate within a School District

The purpose of this study was to identify the prevalent leadership strategies of public school superintendents utilizing descriptions of the Bolman and Deal's Four Leadership Frames and viewpoints of public school superintendents. The purpose was also to examine public school superintendents' viewpoints of how their leadership strategies influence the culture and climate of their school districts. The researcher reviewed the profile data of each school district to reflect the school district's culture and climate. The data for this study was collected through interviews with 20 public school superintendents from various school districts and regions of the United States of America. A few of the recurring themes which emerged included: (a) aligning personal and real- life experiences, (b) understanding others, (c) being open-minded, (d) showing empathy and compassion, (e) appreciation gatherings, and (f) diversity in the hiring process. It is recommended to conduct as a mixed methods study to examine superintendents within neighboring school districts. The researcher may focus on specific indicators that measure the district culture or climate. [The dissertation citations contained here are published with the permission of ProQuest LLC. Further reproduction is prohibited without permission. Copies of dissertations may be obtained by Telephone (800) 1-800-521-0600. Web page: http://www.proquest.com/en-US/products/dissertations/individuals.shtml.]