Empowering Educational Leaders: Enhancing Administrative Leaders’ Effectiveness Through Strategic Professional Development

<p>This study analyzed the current state of professional development opportunities for administrative leaders across ten U.S. states. The research aimed to explore trends, perceived needs, and gaps in professional learning programs for educational administrators. The central research question guiding this study asked: How do administrative leaders perceive and experience existing professional development opportunities, and what areas require strategic improvement? A mixed methods approach was used, with survey data collected from administrative leaders serving in K–12 school settings. The survey instrument was designed to assess participants' perceptions of the relevance, effectiveness, and accessibility of their current professional development experiences. Data analysis identified key patterns, areas of deficiency, and themes related to desired improvements. Findings indicated that administrative leaders consistently needed more strategic, targeted, and intentional professional learning experiences. Participants reported that current offerings often lack coherence and alignment with leadership goals or site-level demands. Conclusions emphasized that high-impact professional development is essential for improving leadership effectiveness, decision-making, and student outcomes. The study recommends ongoing evaluation of leadership development programs, data informed modifications at district and regional levels, and responsive, equity-driven training that celebrates both incremental and long-term progress.</p>

Name thesis:degree_name

Ed.D. Doctor of Education

Level thesis:degree_level

Dissertation - Public Access

Discipline thesis:degree_discipline

Educational Leadership

Year dc:date.available

2025

Author dc:creator

• reed, elizabeth

Contributors dc:contributor

• Christie McMullen

• Principal Pipeline
• Strategic Development
• Principal Effectiveness
• Culture/Climate
• Educational Administration and Supervision
• Educational Leadership
• Higher Education Administration
• Other Educational Administration and Supervision

Repository record dc:identifier

https://digitalcommons.nl.edu/diss/901

OAI identifier oai:identifier

oai:digitalcommons.nl.edu:diss-1970