Latest content added for UNT Digital Library Partner: UNT Librarieshttps://digital.library.unt.edu/explore/partners/UNT/browse/?fq=str_degree_level:Doctoral&fq=str_degree_discipline:Educational+Administration2022-01-08T16:09:06-06:00UNT LibrariesThis is a custom feed for browsing UNT Digital Library Partner: UNT LibrariesDifferences between Schools with High and Non-High Performance of English Learners Relative to Principal Leadership Practices and Social Justice Principles2022-01-08T16:09:06-06:00https://digital.library.unt.edu/ark:/67531/metadc1873846/<p><a href="https://digital.library.unt.edu/ark:/67531/metadc1873846/"><img alt="Differences between Schools with High and Non-High Performance of English Learners Relative to Principal Leadership Practices and Social Justice Principles" title="Differences between Schools with High and Non-High Performance of English Learners Relative to Principal Leadership Practices and Social Justice Principles" src="https://digital.library.unt.edu/ark:/67531/metadc1873846/small/"/></a></p><p>English learners (ELs) are the fastest growing student group in U.S. public schools. The purpose of this mixed method study was to gain an understanding of the relationship between principal actions and the academic achievement of ELs to determine which practices had the greatest impact on student achievement using archival achievement data. A mixed methods research study was conducted in an urban school district in North Texas to explore differences between principals of schools with high and non-high performance of ELs as it related to the implementation of leadership practices and social justice principles. The principals in the PK-5 grade level band who participated in an online survey, reported statistically significant differences regarding the implementation of leadership practices in the areas of leading student culture and data-driven instruction. Statistically significant differences were also found in the competency of driving for results within the social justice principles. Further data analysis of interview findings revealed the distinction between the high-performing and non-high-performing group to be centered on principal actions as inputs for effective teaching as it related to the implementation of schoolwide systems and processes. Further research is recommended to continue the identification of best practices that support the academic success of ELs in a public-school setting.</p>Leadership Practices for Effective Equitable Learning Environments: A Case Study of Opportunity Gaps in a Rural District2020-01-24T06:07:59-06:00https://digital.library.unt.edu/ark:/67531/metadc1609061/<p><a href="https://digital.library.unt.edu/ark:/67531/metadc1609061/"><img alt="Leadership Practices for Effective Equitable Learning Environments: A Case Study of Opportunity Gaps in a Rural District" title="Leadership Practices for Effective Equitable Learning Environments: A Case Study of Opportunity Gaps in a Rural District" src="https://digital.library.unt.edu/ark:/67531/metadc1609061/small/"/></a></p><p>In rural, low socioeconomic public schools, the diversity of the student population challenges teachers beyond their means to meet the wide-ranging needs of students, and therefore creating opportunity gaps. The purpose of this study was to explore one district's leadership support of teachers to create an equitable learning environment for all students. The present study built on existing literature by discovering leadership practices and perceived necessary supports for closing achievement gaps in K-12 classrooms. Through interviews with district and school administrators, classroom teachers, and observations of leadership meetings, the research for this case study included data collection and analysis. From the interview questions and observations, six themes emerged. The themes revealed from the data collected and analysis for this qualitative study aligned with the components of the conceptual framework, a sequence of initiative requirements for equitable learning environments. Developing a sequence of initiatives among all levels of educators could benefit sustainment of an equitable learning environment in Rural ISD. Recommended for further research is professional development to both leadership and teachers about professional learning communities (PLCs). In addition, study of parent education programs and how relationships achieve more parental involvement requires further research. A final recommendation for collegiate education preparation programs should include parental involvement, differentiation, and small group instruction as a requirement for teacher development when planning instruction for equitable lessons resulting in student achievement.</p>Academic Progress Scores to Predict Performance on a State Assessment2017-02-19T19:42:09-06:00https://digital.library.unt.edu/ark:/67531/metadc955044/<p><a href="https://digital.library.unt.edu/ark:/67531/metadc955044/"><img alt="Academic Progress Scores to Predict Performance on a State Assessment" title="Academic Progress Scores to Predict Performance on a State Assessment" src="https://digital.library.unt.edu/ark:/67531/metadc955044/small/"/></a></p><p>This quantitative study examined seventh-grade reading scores to determine the extent to which certain demographic variables (race/ethnicity, gender, socioeconomic status) explain and MAP reading scores predict reading scores on the State of Texas Assessment of Academic Readiness (STAAR) in a selected northeast Texas public school. Standardized assessments only compare the relative performance of an individual student to other groups of students using scaled scores, which can vary from year to year and from state to state. With the advent of computer adaptive testing, this study provides information on the predictive validity of benchmark assessments. Specifically, this study looked for predictive evidence that indicates how accurately test data can predict criterion scores.
Findings revealed, through a multiple regression analysis, that the fall MAP Rasch Unit (RIT) scores predicted the STAAR scale scores. Using SPSS version 22, the data were entered and analyzed in a multiple regression model to determine the presence of a statistical trend or lack thereof. Demographic data and MAP scores were entered into the regression model to examine the predictive validity of the MAP assessment in determining student performance on the STAAR seventh-grade state-mandated reading assessment. The statistical analysis revealed that MAP RIT scores explain a significant variance related to seventh-grade STAAR reading scale scores.
There is a vital need for tools that improve a student's academic development and MAP assessments have been found to predict performance on state-mandated assessments.</p>District Leadership Supporting PLC Implementation in a Rapid Growth District2017-02-19T19:42:09-06:00https://digital.library.unt.edu/ark:/67531/metadc955053/<p><a href="https://digital.library.unt.edu/ark:/67531/metadc955053/"><img alt="District Leadership Supporting PLC Implementation in a Rapid Growth District" title="District Leadership Supporting PLC Implementation in a Rapid Growth District" src="https://digital.library.unt.edu/ark:/67531/metadc955053/small/"/></a></p><p>A growing body of work has emerged regarding the responsibilities required of district leaders in establishing plans that initiate and create conditions for sustainability of continuous improvement achieved through a systemic reform structure such as professional learning communities. However, limited research exists in respect to sustaining cultures of continuous improvement in rapid growth districts. Rapid growth districts can be described as school systems, which construct and open multiple campuses annually. The underlying premise of this study considered how humans interact with one another within a rapidly changing professional organization. Change theory, professional capital, organizational learning theory, and system reform emerge as the conceptual framework in this study of district support of professional learning communities. Data collection for this qualitative descriptive case study included interviewing six K-12 principals, administering the PLCA-DS survey to 247 K-12 staff members, and document review. Recognition of the importance of the PLC framework, building capacity, development of collaborative culture, and issues resulting from constant change due to rapid growth were the four themes generated by the participants to support continuous improvement in a rapid growth district. The four themes combined with the components of the conceptual framework outline how district leaders in a rapidly changing environment cultivate a process leading to system-wide improvement.</p>Efficacy in Texas Charter Schools Compared to Traditional Public Schools2016-03-04T16:14:01-06:00https://digital.library.unt.edu/ark:/67531/metadc804856/<p><a href="https://digital.library.unt.edu/ark:/67531/metadc804856/"><img alt="Efficacy in Texas Charter Schools Compared to Traditional Public Schools" title="Efficacy in Texas Charter Schools Compared to Traditional Public Schools" src="https://digital.library.unt.edu/ark:/67531/metadc804856/small/"/></a></p><p>The need to spur innovation and improve student performance initiated the formation of, under different legislative acts, charter schools that include variations of traditional public schools. With the enthusiasm and level of investment going into the formation of charter schools, it is necessary to explore whether these schools have achieved their objectives. This study explored whether Texas open enrollment charter schools perform bettered compared to Texas public schools. The study applied a causal comparative quantitative research design. School data on graduation and dropout rates, college preparation, attendance rates, and overall performance were analyzed quantitatively. Student achievement data available for statistical analysis includes student performance on the Texas Assessment of Knowledge and Skills (TAKS) state assessment from 2007 to 2011. Data analysis for race, special programs, at risk, economically disadvantaged, and limited English proficiency was incorporated. Descriptive statistics and analysis of variance techniques were included in the data analysis. The analysis extended to post hoc tests to determine variables that caused variation. The study found Texas open-enrollment charter schools had more African American students but fewer Whites compared to public schools. Students in public schools performed better than those in charter schools, and Whites yielded the best performance. Charter schools had high dropout rates, low attendance, and low graduation rates, while public schools had low dropout rates, high attendance, and high graduation rates. Finally, public schools had more students ready for college than charter schools.</p>The Use of Visual-performance Feedback and Its Effect on Behavior-specific Positive Praise in a Self-contained Behavior Classroom2015-03-08T17:44:37-05:00https://digital.library.unt.edu/ark:/67531/metadc500008/<p><a href="https://digital.library.unt.edu/ark:/67531/metadc500008/"><img alt="The Use of Visual-performance Feedback and Its Effect on Behavior-specific Positive Praise in a Self-contained Behavior Classroom" title="The Use of Visual-performance Feedback and Its Effect on Behavior-specific Positive Praise in a Self-contained Behavior Classroom" src="https://digital.library.unt.edu/ark:/67531/metadc500008/small/"/></a></p><p>The present study aimed to understand the relationship between the use of visual-performance feedback and its effects on behavior-specific positive praise in classrooms for students who exhibit behavioral challenges. The current study included 15 children being served by four teachers in elementary self-contained behavior classrooms. Data collection and instrumentation included (a) a pre-service training for all four teachers, (b) two weeks of baseline data on behavior-specific positive praise, (c) eight weeks of data collection in which visual-performance feedback was reported to all four teachers, (d) one consultation session, and (e) two weeks of additional data collection. Observational data attempted to determine the functional relationship between visual-performance feedback, behavior-specific positive praise, and student outcomes using a mixed methods research model. Analysis revealed identified patterns in the relationship between visual-performance feedback, the amount of behavior-specific positive praise, and student behavioral and academic outcomes. These patterns are displayed through both quantitative results taken from the observational data as well as qualitative information given by teachers. Conclusions surrounding the positive outcomes for students were derived from the strongest correlations of between behavior-specific positive praise and visual-representation feedback. Implications drawn from the study were: (a) behavior-specific positive praise training should be a standard for teachers in behavior classrooms, and (b) group consultation should be an important part of monitoring behavior-specific positive praise for classroom teachers.</p>The Impact of Target Revenue Funding on Public School Districts in North Texas2015-03-08T17:44:37-05:00https://digital.library.unt.edu/ark:/67531/metadc500080/<p><a href="https://digital.library.unt.edu/ark:/67531/metadc500080/"><img alt="The Impact of Target Revenue Funding on Public School Districts in North Texas" title="The Impact of Target Revenue Funding on Public School Districts in North Texas" src="https://digital.library.unt.edu/ark:/67531/metadc500080/small/"/></a></p><p>A pre–post case study was conducted to examine how target revenue funding from Texas House Bill 1 (2006) has impacted the school districts within the Texas Education Service Center Region X area. Forced by the courts, the Texas Legislature was required to fix the Texas school finance system because of a de facto statewide property tax it had created by capping school district’s maintenance & operations tax rate at $1.50. Texas Governor Rick Perry used this opportunity to reduce school district M&O taxes by one-third. The Texas Legislature passed House Bill 1 (2006), the Public School Finance and Property Tax Relief Act, in response to the courts and to address a continuous decline in state funding support for public education. The Public School Finance and Property Tax Relief Act reduced local school districts’ property tax rates and revenue with the assurance that these funds would be exchanged for state aid. Local school property taxes were reduced over two years, 2006–2007 and 2007-2008, by 33%. In order for the State of Texas to meet the state aid funding guarantee from House Bill 1 (2006), each school district was frozen to its 2005–2006 revenue per weighted student, which was called a district’s revenue target. This study examined the impact target revenue has had on these school districts by analyzing and comparing revenues and expenditures prior to and following the law’s implementation. Specifically, changes in per-student revenue, per-student expenditures, and district fund balances were assessed.</p>The Impact of Standards-based Report Cards on Reading Development of Primary Grade Students2015-03-08T17:44:37-05:00https://digital.library.unt.edu/ark:/67531/metadc500184/<p><a href="https://digital.library.unt.edu/ark:/67531/metadc500184/"><img alt="The Impact of Standards-based Report Cards on Reading Development of Primary Grade Students" title="The Impact of Standards-based Report Cards on Reading Development of Primary Grade Students" src="https://digital.library.unt.edu/ark:/67531/metadc500184/small/"/></a></p><p>The purpose of this mixed-method study was to explore the instructional changes in first grade classrooms and reading progress of first grade students in relation to implementation of standards-based report cards (SBRC). The goal of this study, conducted in a suburban Texas school district, was to determine whether there was a statistically significant difference in reading progress between students enrolled in first grade classrooms in which traditional report cards were used in comparison to comparable classrooms in which SBRCs were used. Additionally, the instructional practices of teachers were examined to determine the types of changes that took place as the district moved from traditional report cards to SBRCs. A total of 709 students and 15 teachers were involved in the study. The study revealed that there was no statistically significant difference between the reading growth of students assessed in SBRC classrooms and those assessed with traditional report cards. There were, however, significant differences in instructional practices employed by teachers in SBRC classrooms. These changes in practice included instructing with a greater degree of focus on specific objectives to be taught, more closely following the district’s scope and sequence, greater communication regarding the grading criteria and methods used for reporting progress, use of the most recent achievement data when determining grades (in comparison to averaging of grades during a reporting period), and a greater awareness of students’ specific abilities.</p>The Impact of Professional Development on Student Achievement As Measured by Math and Science Curriculum-based Assessments2015-03-08T17:44:37-05:00https://digital.library.unt.edu/ark:/67531/metadc500022/<p><a href="https://digital.library.unt.edu/ark:/67531/metadc500022/"><img alt="The Impact of Professional Development on Student Achievement As Measured by Math and Science Curriculum-based Assessments" title="The Impact of Professional Development on Student Achievement As Measured by Math and Science Curriculum-based Assessments" src="https://digital.library.unt.edu/ark:/67531/metadc500022/small/"/></a></p><p>The purpose of this study was to explore the impact of teacher professional development on student achievement measured by scores on curriculum-based assessments, CBAs. The participants in the study included 260 3rd, 4th, and 5th grade math and science teachers. Teacher participation in professional development courses was collected for curriculum, instruction, differentiation, assessment, technology integration, and continuous improvement credit types. Achievement data for 8,454 students was used: 2,883 in 3rd grade, 2,752 in 4th grade, and 2,819 in 5th grade. The dependent variable of student achievement was dichotomized at the median: half of the student participants scored above the median and half of the students scored at and below the median. A series of logistic regression models were fit to the data that included examining all main effects and interaction terms among all variables to determine the best fitting model. The results of this study indicate that for 4th grade science, teacher professional development participation in curriculum, instruction, and differentiation credit strands increased the chances for students to score above the district median on CBAs. The larger number of professional development hours in a variety of credit strands had a negative impact on student achievement in 4th grade science. In 5th grade science, the students whose teacher spent more hours in professional learning for continuous improvement had an increased likelihood of scoring above the district median on CBAs.</p>A Comparison of Three Teacher Evaluation Methods and the Impact on College Readiness2014-11-11T07:32:34-06:00https://digital.library.unt.edu/ark:/67531/metadc407840/<p><a href="https://digital.library.unt.edu/ark:/67531/metadc407840/"><img alt="A Comparison of Three Teacher Evaluation Methods and the Impact on College Readiness" title="A Comparison of Three Teacher Evaluation Methods and the Impact on College Readiness" src="https://digital.library.unt.edu/ark:/67531/metadc407840/small/"/></a></p><p>Much attention in recent years has gone to the evaluation of teacher effectiveness, and some scholars have developed conceptual models to evaluate the effectiveness. The purpose of this study was to compare three teacher evaluation models – the Texas Professional Development Appraisal System (PDAS), the teacher index model (TI), and the value-added model (VAM) – to determine teacher effectiveness using student demographic and longitudinal academic data. Predictive data from students included economic disadvantage status, ethnicity, gender, participation in special education, limited English proficiency, and performance on Texas Assessment of Knowledge and Skills (TAKS). Data serving as dependent variables were scores from Scholastic Aptitude Test (SAT®) verbal/critical reasoning and mathematics. These data came from 1,714 students who were 9.7% Hispanic, 9.2% African American, and 81.2% White. The models were tested for 64 English language arts teachers and 109 mathematics teachers, using student examination scores from the SAT® verbal/critical reasoning and mathematics. The data were aligned for specific faculty members and the students whom they taught during the year of the study. The results of the study indicated that the TI and VAM explained approximately 42% of the variance in college entrance exam scores from the SAT® verbal/critical reasoning and mathematics (R2 = 0.418) across mathematics and English language arts teachers, whereas the TI model explained approximately 40% of the variance in the SAT® scores (R2 = 0.402). The difference, however, in the R-squared values between the VAM and the TI model was not statistically significant (t (169) = 1.84, p > 0.05), suggesting that both models provided similar results. The least effective model used to predict student success on college entrance exams was the PDAS, which is a state-adopted model currently in use in over 1,000 school districts in Texas, The teacher PDAS scores explained approximately 36% of the variance in student success on the SAT® (R2 = 0.359). The study provides school leadership with information about alternative methods of evaluating teacher effectiveness without difficult formulas or high costs associated with hiring statisticians. In addition, results indicate that the models vary significantly in the extent to which they can predict which teachers are most effective in preparing students for college. This study also emphasizes the critical need to provide teacher evaluations that align with student achievement on college entrance exams.</p>A Case Study of 1:1 Technology Policies in Four Texas High Schools and Their Relationship to Practice2014-11-08T11:56:31-06:00https://digital.library.unt.edu/ark:/67531/metadc407819/<p><a href="https://digital.library.unt.edu/ark:/67531/metadc407819/"><img alt="A Case Study of 1:1 Technology Policies in Four Texas High Schools and Their Relationship to Practice" title="A Case Study of 1:1 Technology Policies in Four Texas High Schools and Their Relationship to Practice" src="https://digital.library.unt.edu/ark:/67531/metadc407819/small/"/></a></p><p>With increasing emphasis on technology in schools, the importance of technology policies is great. This study investigated policies for four 1:1 secondary schools in Texas (schools with a ratio of one computing device per student), particularly with respect to the relationship of those policies to practice. The purpose of the study was to determine the current status of the National Education Technology Standards (NETS) essential conditions as reflected in policy and the relationship of those conditions to practice as measured through levels of technology usage and teaching innovation. Schools were selected through purposive, criterion sampling. Open-ended interviews were conducted with twelve participants (principals, technology directors, and superintendents). Policies were rated by campus principals and the researcher using a rubric based on the NETS essential conditions. Finally, surveys of proficiency and readiness measures were collected from 156 teachers using the School Technology and Readiness (STaR) instrument and the Levels of Teaching Innovation (LoTI) instrument. Interviews were transcribed and coded using structural and frequency coding. Policies were analyzed using magnitude coding and policy ratings. A qualitative analysis determined patterns between policy and practice. Quantitative data collected from surveys were measured against policy ratings and magnitude coding using bivariate correlation methods in SPSS. Quantitative analysis revealed two statistically significant relationships between policy and reported levels of practice in the classroom. Qualitative elements of the study from interviews and policy ratings revealed six findings that may explain a lack of correlation between policy and practice: a lack of ability for leadership to identify 1:1 program policy; lack among school leaders of perceived relationship between policy and practice; a belief among leaders that they are communicating policy to stakeholders even though they demonstrated difficulty in articulating policy; an inability to identify specific research-based theoretical foundations in policy; a lack of meaningful measurement of practices; and a lack of leadership at the same school to interpret policy similarly. A seventh finding revealed potential patterns between conditions that are addressed extensively in policy and evidence of those conditions in practice. Qualitative findings, in particular, contribute insights into disconnections between policy and practice in 1:1 settings.</p>A New Era of Educational Assessment: the Use of Stratified Random Sampling in High Stakes Testing2014-11-08T11:56:31-06:00https://digital.library.unt.edu/ark:/67531/metadc407797/<p><a href="https://digital.library.unt.edu/ark:/67531/metadc407797/"><img alt="A New Era of Educational Assessment: the Use of Stratified Random Sampling in High Stakes Testing" title="A New Era of Educational Assessment: the Use of Stratified Random Sampling in High Stakes Testing" src="https://digital.library.unt.edu/ark:/67531/metadc407797/small/"/></a></p><p>Although sampling techniques have been used effectively in education research and practice it is not clear how stratified random sampling techniques apply to high-stakes testing in the current educational environment. The present study focused on representative sampling as a possible means for reducing the quantity of state-administered tests in Texas public education. The purpose of this study was two-fold: (1) to determine if stratified random sampling is a viable option for reducing the number of students participating in Texas state assessments, and (2) to determine which sampling rate provides consistent estimates of the actual test results among the population of students. The study examined students’ scaled scores, percent of students passing, and student growth over a three-year period on state-mandated assessments in reading, mathematics, science, and social studies. Four sampling rates were considered (10%, 15%, 20%, & 25%) when analyzing student performance across demographic variables, including population estimates by socioeconomic status, limited English proficiency, and placement in special education classes. The data set for this study included five school districts and 68,641 students. Factorial ANOVAs were used initially to examine the effects of sampling rate on bias in reading and mathematics scores and bias in percentage of students passing these tests. Also 95% confidence intervals (CIs) and effect sizes for each model were examined to aid in the interpretation of the results. The results showed main effects for sampling rate and campus as well as a two-way interaction between these variables. The results indicated that a 20% sampling rate would closely approximate the parameter values regarding the mean TAKS reading and mathematics scale scores and the percentage of students passing these assessments. However, as population size decreases, sampling rate may have to be increased. For example, in populations with 30 or fewer students in a subgroup it is recommended that all students be included in the testing program. This study situated in one state contributes to the growing body of research being conducted on an international basis in sample-based educational assessments.</p>A Comparison of Special Education Service Delivery in the Public School Districts in the State of Texas: Meeting the Requirement for Least Restrictive Environment2014-08-27T07:42:59-05:00https://digital.library.unt.edu/ark:/67531/metadc332672/<p><a href="https://digital.library.unt.edu/ark:/67531/metadc332672/"><img alt="A Comparison of Special Education Service Delivery in the Public School Districts in the State of Texas: Meeting the Requirement for Least Restrictive Environment" title="A Comparison of Special Education Service Delivery in the Public School Districts in the State of Texas: Meeting the Requirement for Least Restrictive Environment" src="https://digital.library.unt.edu/ark:/67531/metadc332672/small/"/></a></p><p>This study examined the rates of regular class placement for Texas public school students with learning disabilities, mental retardation, and emotional disturbance and possible reasons for a high rate of placement. A questionnaire regarding methods used to assist students with handicaps in regular education classes was mailed to the directors of all special education programs in the state. The directors were also asked to submit a copy of the district's June 1, 1989 Superintendent's Annual Report which contains data on the placement of all identified students with handicaps. School district property wealth and size were obtained from official state records.</p>A Comparative Analysis of the Values That Are Predominant in Private Schools, Public Choice Schools, and Public Attendance-Zone Schools in San Antonio, Texas2014-08-27T07:42:59-05:00https://digital.library.unt.edu/ark:/67531/metadc332627/<p><a href="https://digital.library.unt.edu/ark:/67531/metadc332627/"><img alt="A Comparative Analysis of the Values That Are Predominant in Private Schools, Public Choice Schools, and Public Attendance-Zone Schools in San Antonio, Texas" title="A Comparative Analysis of the Values That Are Predominant in Private Schools, Public Choice Schools, and Public Attendance-Zone Schools in San Antonio, Texas" src="https://digital.library.unt.edu/ark:/67531/metadc332627/small/"/></a></p><p>Public concern with respect to declining traditional values, character, and family structure in the midst of increased crime, violence, and drug use have brought American education into the political arena and under intense scrutiny. The purpose of this study was to investigate whether or not differences exist in the values fostered in private schools, public choice schools and public attendance-zone schools and whether or not there are differences in the values that are identified by students as compared with teachers. The theoretical framework for the study is based upon the beliefs that values form the foundation of human behavior and that schools influence the values of societies in which they exist.</p>Decision Making and Teacher Morale in Selected Elementary Schools in North Texas: An Exploratory Study2014-08-27T07:42:59-05:00https://digital.library.unt.edu/ark:/67531/metadc332754/<p><a href="https://digital.library.unt.edu/ark:/67531/metadc332754/"><img alt="Decision Making and Teacher Morale in Selected Elementary Schools in North Texas: An Exploratory Study" title="Decision Making and Teacher Morale in Selected Elementary Schools in North Texas: An Exploratory Study" src="https://digital.library.unt.edu/ark:/67531/metadc332754/small/"/></a></p><p>The purpose of this study was to determine whether elementary teacher morale is related to teacher freedom to make decisions and give input into their work and work environment. Additionally, the study attempted to determine whether teacher decision making freedom varies with age, gender, number of degrees, years of experience, or special teaching assignment.</p>The Effect of the Conflict Between Instructional Leadership and Building Management Roles on Job Satisfaction of the Texas Public High School Principal2014-08-22T18:00:56-05:00https://digital.library.unt.edu/ark:/67531/metadc331877/<p><a href="https://digital.library.unt.edu/ark:/67531/metadc331877/"><img alt="The Effect of the Conflict Between Instructional Leadership and Building Management Roles on Job Satisfaction of the Texas Public High School Principal" title="The Effect of the Conflict Between Instructional Leadership and Building Management Roles on Job Satisfaction of the Texas Public High School Principal" src="https://digital.library.unt.edu/ark:/67531/metadc331877/small/"/></a></p><p>The problem of this study was the conflict perceived by Texas Public High School Principals involving two roles which have been described as contradictory in nature; namely as an instructional leader and as a building manager. This study was also concerned with the level of job satisfaction of the Texas Public High School Principal. 1,205 Texas Public High School Principals identified by the Texas Education Agency and University Interscholastic League were mailed a three part questionnaire survey. 700 principals (or 58.09% of the entire population) returned the completed surveys. The questionnaire "Demographic Survey for Texas Public High School Principals" consisted of eight questions. The thirty-four statement "Questionnaire for Texas High School Principals" allowed principals to provide their perceptions of the roles and responsibilities for their present position as well as an ideal position. The final questionnaire, the four question "Survey of Job Satisfaction", assessed the level of job satisfaction for each principal. Hypothesis one was analyzed with a one-way ANOVA to determine if principals differed in their perceptions of their job roles and job positions. These positions included both the present job position and a more desired or ideal job position. The differences in these positions resulted in conflict. Hypothesis two utilized a point bi-serial correlation to find a significant difference in the number of satisfied and dissatisfied principals. Research questions one through three compared the responses from the surveys by the demographic variables. Significant differences for perceptions of instructional leadership and building management, job satisfaction, and conflict respectively were reported. A summary, findings, conclusions, implications, and recommendations for further study, conclude the dissertation. Findings of the study conclude that the more assistance a principal has, the less conflict the principal seems to have between the roles of instructional leader and building manager.</p>A Cost-Benefit Analysis of the Implementation of Texas House Bill 72 in Selected Texas Public School Districts2014-08-22T18:00:56-05:00https://digital.library.unt.edu/ark:/67531/metadc331763/<p><a href="https://digital.library.unt.edu/ark:/67531/metadc331763/"><img alt="A Cost-Benefit Analysis of the Implementation of Texas House Bill 72 in Selected Texas Public School Districts" title="A Cost-Benefit Analysis of the Implementation of Texas House Bill 72 in Selected Texas Public School Districts" src="https://digital.library.unt.edu/ark:/67531/metadc331763/small/"/></a></p><p>This study was conducted to analyze the effect of implementation of Texas House Bill 72 on budgets of selected Texas public school districts and to ascertain educational benefits to students derived from implementation of the bill as perceived by superintendents. Questionnaires were sent to superintendents of the Region 10 Education Service Center to determine perceived educational benefits to students. A demographic data sheet provided information for classifying respondents by educational experience, superintendent experience, and district enrollment classifications. Sixty-two districts responded. Official public school budget data for each district were analyzed for fiscal years 1983 through 1986 as were data from the questionnaire. Overall statistical information was gleaned through CONDESCRIPTIVE. Mean total expenditures, mean total tax rate, and state fiscal aid data were compiled, tabulated, and reported for each enrollment classification and entire sample. In addition, a t-test between the difference of two independent means at a probability level of .05 was applied. The two independent means were the averages of data for the two years prior to and after implementation of the law for expenditures, tax rates, and state fiscal contributions. Data comparing local and state expenditures were compiled, tabulated, and reported for each group to compare local and state fiscal effort prior to and after implementation. One-way analysis of variance was used to compare demographic variables with perceived educational benefits. Item and factor analyses were applied to establish reliability.</p>A Study of Disparity in Effort Among Texas School Districts for Debt Service, as Well as for Maintenance and Operation2014-08-22T18:00:56-05:00https://digital.library.unt.edu/ark:/67531/metadc332077/<p><a href="https://digital.library.unt.edu/ark:/67531/metadc332077/"><img alt="A Study of Disparity in Effort Among Texas School Districts for Debt Service, as Well as for Maintenance and Operation" title="A Study of Disparity in Effort Among Texas School Districts for Debt Service, as Well as for Maintenance and Operation" src="https://digital.library.unt.edu/ark:/67531/metadc332077/small/"/></a></p><p>The problem with which this investigation is concerned is that of determining the degree to which fiscal disparity in Texas school districts affects debt service, as well as maintenance and operation and local enrichment. This study has four main purposes: to determine whether the poor school districts are exerting more or less effort for debt service, maintenance and operation and total taxation than are the wealthy districts; to determine how the size of Texas school districts is related to district wealth; to determine the number of Texas school districts that do not levy a tax for debt service; and to provide information for persons interested in school finance matters—namely, legislators, educators, students of finance and lay citizens who may or may not be property taxpayers.</p>Alternative Funding Models for Public School Finance in Texas2014-08-22T18:00:56-05:00https://digital.library.unt.edu/ark:/67531/metadc331404/<p><a href="https://digital.library.unt.edu/ark:/67531/metadc331404/"><img alt="Alternative Funding Models for Public School Finance in Texas" title="Alternative Funding Models for Public School Finance in Texas" src="https://digital.library.unt.edu/ark:/67531/metadc331404/small/"/></a></p><p>This study examined different funding methods for financing public education in order to solve the problems associated with large numbers of school districts and great disparities in property wealth without abandonment of property tax as the major revenue source. Using enrollment and State Property Tax Board data for the 1,061 school districts in Texas in 1986-87, four alternative funding plans were studied to compare the equity and fiscal impact of each on public school finance in Texas. The state and local shares of the total cost of education were computed using a combination of three per-pupil expenditure levels and four funding formulas. The per-pupil expenditure levels used were $3,850, $4,200, and $4,580. The formulas used were representative of a full state funding plan, a percentage equalization plan, a power equalization plan, and a foundation school program plan.
Since each of the four plans used significantly higher per-pupil expenditure values, all required a greater monetary investment on the part of the state. However, all plans were found to be equalizing in nature if set per-pupil expenditure values were maintained and no local enrichment was permitted. In addition, each of the four plans, as studied, met the fiscal neutrality standard of the 1987 Edqewood v. Kirbv case. The percentage and power equalization plans required less monetary investment on the part of the state than either full state funding or the foundation school program.
As a result of the study, it is recommended that the state consider a combination of plans. For example, the state could employ a full state funding model up to the $3,850 per-pupil expenditure level with added permissible local millage being limited and power equalized. In addition, while each of the plans studied reduces inequity, the increased cost of an adequate public school education suggests that the state consider other sources of revenue to fund public education. These could include personal or corporate income taxes.</p>A Descriptive Study of Personnel Decisions Appealed to the Texas State Commissioner of Education August 1981 - August 19862014-08-22T18:00:56-05:00https://digital.library.unt.edu/ark:/67531/metadc331426/<p><a href="https://digital.library.unt.edu/ark:/67531/metadc331426/"><img alt="A Descriptive Study of Personnel Decisions Appealed to the Texas State Commissioner of Education August 1981 - August 1986" title="A Descriptive Study of Personnel Decisions Appealed to the Texas State Commissioner of Education August 1981 - August 1986" src="https://digital.library.unt.edu/ark:/67531/metadc331426/small/"/></a></p><p>The problem. --The problem in this study was to describe the issues arising in employment decisions appealed to the Texas Commissioner of Education. Decisions made in courts are binding on school officials, and they are published in law reporters found in most libraries. The Commissioner's decisions are also binding on school officials, but they are not published or widely reported. Thus, this important body of information may not reach those who are responsible for its application.
Methods. --The decisions of the Commissioner were examined to determine the issues and the underlying rationale used by the Commissioner in the process of deciding the appeals. A series of data reductions allowed a determination of patterns found in the outcomes of the decisions which favored the employee and those which favored the school districts. The analysis produced a set of data from which implications for decision making could be drawn.</p>Factors Influencing Student Achievement in Texas2014-08-22T18:00:56-05:00https://digital.library.unt.edu/ark:/67531/metadc331552/<p><a href="https://digital.library.unt.edu/ark:/67531/metadc331552/"><img alt="Factors Influencing Student Achievement in Texas" title="Factors Influencing Student Achievement in Texas" src="https://digital.library.unt.edu/ark:/67531/metadc331552/small/"/></a></p><p>This study examines the relationships among student socioeconomic status, school district enrollment, minority enrollment, district expenditure per pupil, and the teaching experience of faculty as these variables influence the achievement scores of secondary students in Texas. Data from a total of 1,061 Texas school districts were used to determine the effects of the indicated district-level predictor variables on three criterion variables: reading, mathematics, and writing scores for the 11th-grade Texas Education Assessment of Minimum Skills (TEAMS). The study led to the following conclusions: 1. Low socioeconomic status of students in Texas, as in the rest of the United States, insures that test scores will be lower if all other variables are held constant. 2. Large minority populations are strong predictors of low test scores, especially in mathematics and reading. 3. Students in districts whose faculty had a high average of years of teaching experience also scored high in achievement tests, especially in mathematics and writing. 4. High average district expenditure per pupil predicts high test scores, especially in reading. 5. School district size or enrollment has low predictive value of test scores. Among several specific recommendations, this study advises that further study be done concerning the most effective ways to educate minority and socioeconomically disadvantaged student populations. The study also recommends that better ways be found to retain experienced teachers in the classroom, including monetary compensation, extra allowances for staff development, and additional resources. The study cautions against simply adding money to a district's budget to increase student achievement scores, asserting that districts should make thorough studies before higher expenditures per pupil are alone used to increase test scores.</p>Accountability in Schools: a Study of High School Accountability Ratings and College Success2014-04-23T20:20:45-05:00https://digital.library.unt.edu/ark:/67531/metadc283865/<p><a href="https://digital.library.unt.edu/ark:/67531/metadc283865/"><img alt="Accountability in Schools: a Study of High School Accountability Ratings and College Success" title="Accountability in Schools: a Study of High School Accountability Ratings and College Success" src="https://digital.library.unt.edu/ark:/67531/metadc283865/small/"/></a></p><p>The purpose of this study was to determine the relationship between high school campus accountability ratings, college readiness indicators, and the percent of students who achieved first year college success. Correlation and multiple regression analyses were used to analyze the relationship between the variables. Data was analyzed for two-year and four-year postsecondary educational institutions which were divided by eight school district types. Regression analysis of the relationship between high school campus accountability ratings and the percent of students who achieved first year college success for four- year post secondary educational institutions revealed statistically significant results ranging from R2 =.179 to R2 = .220. Similar results were found for two-year post secondary educational institutions with statistically significant results ranging from R2 = .049 to R2 = .218. The results indicated negligible to small relationships between the variables. Regression results of the analysis for the relationship between college readiness indicators and the percent of students who achieved first year college success revealed statistically significant results for 2 - year post secondary educational institutions ranging from R2 = .077 to R2 = .596 and for 4 -year post secondary educational institutions ranging from R2 = .048 to R2 = .304. These results indicated small to moderate relationships between college readiness indicators and the percent of students who achieve first year college success.</p>The Effects of the Texas Reading First Response to Intervention Program on Student Achievement and Campus Special Education Rates2014-04-23T20:20:45-05:00https://digital.library.unt.edu/ark:/67531/metadc283855/<p><a href="https://digital.library.unt.edu/ark:/67531/metadc283855/"><img alt="The Effects of the Texas Reading First Response to Intervention Program on Student Achievement and Campus Special Education Rates" title="The Effects of the Texas Reading First Response to Intervention Program on Student Achievement and Campus Special Education Rates" src="https://digital.library.unt.edu/ark:/67531/metadc283855/small/"/></a></p><p>The purpose of this study was to examine special education populations, special education reading achievement, and regular education reading achievement in relation to the implementation of the Reading First three-tiered model as a response to Intervention platform. The population for this study focused on rural schools with Grades K-3 in attendance. Schools participated in the reading first grant period of the 2003-2009 school years. Forty-seven Texas Reading First schools were compared to 47 campuses having similar populations, socioeconomic makeups, and grade structures. This study utilized quantitative research measures to evaluate the level of special education populations on Reading First campuses using a response to intervention model. Quantitative measures were also used to evaluate those same campuses achievement rates of both special education and regular education students on the Texas Assessment of Knowledge and Skills reading tests. The study's outcome data showed little to no statistic significance for the three research questions. However, the inferential statistics showed a decrease in the special education population of the Reading First schools. Inferential statistics also indicated both the special education and the regular education students showed growth on the Texas Assessment of Knowledge and Skills reading tests. The use of a response to intervention program can be effective in the reduction of special education students identified on school campuses. Response to intervention programs can boost achievement levels of students receiving special education services. Students not enrolled in special education can benefit from effective response to intervention services.</p>Hispanic Representation in the Superintendency: Perceived Competencies and Organizational Outcomes That Benefit School Districts2014-04-23T20:20:45-05:00https://digital.library.unt.edu/ark:/67531/metadc283806/<p><a href="https://digital.library.unt.edu/ark:/67531/metadc283806/"><img alt="Hispanic Representation in the Superintendency: Perceived Competencies and Organizational Outcomes That Benefit School Districts" title="Hispanic Representation in the Superintendency: Perceived Competencies and Organizational Outcomes That Benefit School Districts" src="https://digital.library.unt.edu/ark:/67531/metadc283806/small/"/></a></p><p>This study assessed 40 factors often cited in literature to determine the extent that Hispanic superintendents perceive them as influential when accessing the superintendency. Eight Hispanic superintendents in Texas participated in this qualitative study, which was based on interviews as well as written responses to a survey. This study found that the factors considered most influential to these superintendents were their ability to communicate, self-perception/self-efficacy, and level of overall preparedness. These findings contrast with previous research indicating that race or ethnicity, mentoring, and career path are most influential. The study also identified factors related to race and ethnicity that most influenced a Hispanic's ability to access the superintendency, albeit to a lesser degree. These factors were the ability to serve as a Hispanic role model to students, ability to increase Hispanic students' academic performance, and the ability to speak a second language. Moreover, through analysis of a large number of survey responses the study examined the extent to which a superintendent's race or ethnicity is significant to addressing the needs of Hispanics. To assure this question a comparative analysis of Hispanics' and non-Hispanics competencies and organizational outcome was conducted. The results indicate that superintendents, in general, regardless of race or ethnicity, can acquire knowledge about the Hispanic culture, develop cultural competence, and produce outcomes that affect Hispanics. A Hispanic, however, who possesses the ability to speak Spanish and has authentic cultural experiences, can potentially provide unique competencies in serving Hispanics. Cultural competence with Hispanics, however, does not supersede the importance of a superintendent's overall effectiveness and ability to meet the needs of all students. Whereas other studies have addressed the significance of cultural competency in other institutions that serve the public, such as the healthcare industry, this study addressed cultural competency in public education. Progressive definitions of cultural competency included the extent to which outcomes met constituent needs for measuring cultural competency. The overall findings in this study suggest a need to develop preparation programs that result in culturally competent leaders, a need to revise state required certification requirements to reflect a need for cultural competence, and a need to revise locally-developed job postings/descriptions to indicate that the superintendent must provide culturally competent leadership.</p>The Effect of Job Congruency and Discrepancy with the National Athletic Trainers Association Athletic Trainer Role Delineation on the Job Characteristics Model of Work Redesign in Secondary School Athletic Trainers in Texas2014-03-26T09:30:20-05:00https://digital.library.unt.edu/ark:/67531/metadc279063/<p><a href="https://digital.library.unt.edu/ark:/67531/metadc279063/"><img alt="The Effect of Job Congruency and Discrepancy with the National Athletic Trainers Association Athletic Trainer Role Delineation on the Job Characteristics Model of Work Redesign in Secondary School Athletic Trainers in Texas" title="The Effect of Job Congruency and Discrepancy with the National Athletic Trainers Association Athletic Trainer Role Delineation on the Job Characteristics Model of Work Redesign in Secondary School Athletic Trainers in Texas" src="https://digital.library.unt.edu/ark:/67531/metadc279063/small/"/></a></p><p>This study investigated person-situation relations of professional preparation and job classification of secondary school athletic training positions with core job dimensions and affective outcomes within Hackman and Oldham's 1980 Job Characteristics Model. Research focused on which relations show increased affective outcomes; relationships between core job dimensions and affective outcomes; and characteristics of the core job dimensions of task identification, task significance, and skill variety of athletic trainer tasks as defined by the National Athletic Trainers Association Board of Certification, Inc. 1995 Role Delineation Study.</p>A Qualitative Study of Nine Elementary Principals Providing Inclusion for the Differently Abled2014-03-26T09:30:20-05:00https://digital.library.unt.edu/ark:/67531/metadc279287/<p><a href="https://digital.library.unt.edu/ark:/67531/metadc279287/"><img alt="A Qualitative Study of Nine Elementary Principals Providing Inclusion for the Differently Abled" title="A Qualitative Study of Nine Elementary Principals Providing Inclusion for the Differently Abled" src="https://digital.library.unt.edu/ark:/67531/metadc279287/small/"/></a></p><p>This is a qualitative description of the decision making processes that nine elementary principals use in determining campus level services for the differently abled and of how their administrative styles and values impact those decisions. Both the literature on leadership and on special education inclusion are reviewed. This review creates the framework in which the research questions are examined and structures the reporting of the findings. The defining attributes of leadership styles in conjunction with the defining attributes of inclusion are the heart of this study. Audiotaped interviews with each principal provide the data related to questions of leadership style, decision making, philosophy and autonomy. Separate site visits in which teachers from both regular and special education are queried as to the actual practices on their respective campuses and to their reactions to program changes involving the differently abled students. The combination of data gathered from the principal interviews, from the site visitations and the use of triangulation of data provide the basis for the findings.</p>Assessment and Analysis of Per Pupil Expenditures: a Study Testing a Micro-Financial Model in Equity and Student Outcome Determination2014-03-26T09:30:20-05:00https://digital.library.unt.edu/ark:/67531/metadc279253/<p><a href="https://digital.library.unt.edu/ark:/67531/metadc279253/"><img alt="Assessment and Analysis of Per Pupil Expenditures: a Study Testing a Micro-Financial Model in Equity and Student Outcome Determination" title="Assessment and Analysis of Per Pupil Expenditures: a Study Testing a Micro-Financial Model in Equity and Student Outcome Determination" src="https://digital.library.unt.edu/ark:/67531/metadc279253/small/"/></a></p><p>The purpose of this study was to examine district level financial data to assess equity across districts, to compare equity benchmarks established in the literature using selected functions from the state's financial database, and to determine the predictive value of those functions to the Texas Assessment of Academic Skills (TAAS) tests of 1997.</p>A Comparison of the Personality Traits of Effective Teachers of Bilingual and English as a Second Language Students with the Personality Traits of Effective Teachers of Traditional Elementary School Students2014-03-26T09:30:20-05:00https://digital.library.unt.edu/ark:/67531/metadc278909/<p><a href="https://digital.library.unt.edu/ark:/67531/metadc278909/"><img alt="A Comparison of the Personality Traits of Effective Teachers of Bilingual and English as a Second Language Students with the Personality Traits of Effective Teachers of Traditional Elementary School Students" title="A Comparison of the Personality Traits of Effective Teachers of Bilingual and English as a Second Language Students with the Personality Traits of Effective Teachers of Traditional Elementary School Students" src="https://digital.library.unt.edu/ark:/67531/metadc278909/small/"/></a></p><p>The purpose of this study was to identify the personality traits of effective elementary bilingual/ESL teachers, to identify the personality traits of effective traditional elementary teachers, and to compare the two groups.</p>Alternative Funding Models for Financing Construction of Public School Facilities and Debt Retirement2014-03-26T09:30:20-05:00https://digital.library.unt.edu/ark:/67531/metadc279337/<p><a href="https://digital.library.unt.edu/ark:/67531/metadc279337/"><img alt="Alternative Funding Models for Financing Construction of Public School Facilities and Debt Retirement" title="Alternative Funding Models for Financing Construction of Public School Facilities and Debt Retirement" src="https://digital.library.unt.edu/ark:/67531/metadc279337/small/"/></a></p><p>The main purpose of this study was to examine the various finance models that are presently being used to finance facilities and to provide information for the Texas legislature, the Texas Education Agency, and local school districts concerning facilities funding models that might be used in Texas. Based on the information gathered and analyzed, several conclusions are drawn and recommendations regarding state funding of capital projects in the State of Texas are made. The model recommended for Texas is one that provides for an equalized grant and includes formulas for the distribution of state money.</p>Site-based Management : A Study of the Changing Role of the Central Office in Decentralization2014-03-26T09:30:20-05:00https://digital.library.unt.edu/ark:/67531/metadc278926/<p><a href="https://digital.library.unt.edu/ark:/67531/metadc278926/"><img alt="Site-based Management : A Study of the Changing Role of the Central Office in Decentralization" title="Site-based Management : A Study of the Changing Role of the Central Office in Decentralization" src="https://digital.library.unt.edu/ark:/67531/metadc278926/small/"/></a></p><p>The purpose of this study was to investigate the effects of restructuring associated with site-based management and the change in roles of central office personnel. The study also attempted to determine if districts had a plan with definitions of responsibility and accountability in place. The study included relationships between the decentralization process of site-based management and central office personnel's perception of job satisfaction.</p>The Effects of Employee Health Promotion Practices of Texas Public School Districts on Costs for Absenteeism, Health Care Premiums, Health Care Claims, and Workers' Compensation Claims2014-03-26T09:30:20-05:00https://digital.library.unt.edu/ark:/67531/metadc279060/<p><a href="https://digital.library.unt.edu/ark:/67531/metadc279060/"><img alt="The Effects of Employee Health Promotion Practices of Texas Public School Districts on Costs for Absenteeism, Health Care Premiums, Health Care Claims, and Workers' Compensation Claims" title="The Effects of Employee Health Promotion Practices of Texas Public School Districts on Costs for Absenteeism, Health Care Premiums, Health Care Claims, and Workers' Compensation Claims" src="https://digital.library.unt.edu/ark:/67531/metadc279060/small/"/></a></p><p>This study examined whether or not it is in the financial best interest of public school districts, as employers, to promote the health of its employees.</p>An Analysis of Texas Special Education Due Process Hearings from September 1, 1983, to September 1, 1992: Implications for the Administration of Special Education Programs2014-03-26T09:30:20-05:00https://digital.library.unt.edu/ark:/67531/metadc279368/<p><a href="https://digital.library.unt.edu/ark:/67531/metadc279368/"><img alt="An Analysis of Texas Special Education Due Process Hearings from September 1, 1983, to September 1, 1992: Implications for the Administration of Special Education Programs" title="An Analysis of Texas Special Education Due Process Hearings from September 1, 1983, to September 1, 1992: Implications for the Administration of Special Education Programs" src="https://digital.library.unt.edu/ark:/67531/metadc279368/small/"/></a></p><p>The purpose of this study was to assess the effects of selected characteristics on the outcomes of those special education due process hearings brought forth in the state of Texas from September 1, 1983, to September 1, 1992. A further purpose was to determine if district characteristics of size or location affect the likelihood of a district's becoming involved in a special education due process hearing. Data for the study was collected for all special education due process hearings conducted in the State of Texas from September 1, 1983, to September 1, 1992. A coding system was used to record the data for the study and the Chi-square test of independence was used to determine whether a relationship existed between the selected variable (hearing issue, disability classifications and restrictiveness of placement) and hearing outcome. The frequency of involvement in hearings for districts of various size and urban characteristics was displayed as a percentage.</p>The Use of Group Achievement Test Data to Determine Special Education Referral Accuracy in Texas2014-03-26T09:30:20-05:00https://digital.library.unt.edu/ark:/67531/metadc278974/<p><a href="https://digital.library.unt.edu/ark:/67531/metadc278974/"><img alt="The Use of Group Achievement Test Data to Determine Special Education Referral Accuracy in Texas" title="The Use of Group Achievement Test Data to Determine Special Education Referral Accuracy in Texas" src="https://digital.library.unt.edu/ark:/67531/metadc278974/small/"/></a></p><p>This study was designed to ascertain whether group achievement test data can determine special education referral accuracy. One hundred eighty-nine special education referrals from four school districts in Texas were examined. The demographics were limited to group achievement test data: grade equivalents and percentiles in the subject areas of reading, spelling, language arts, and mathematics. Also examined were referral and eligibility outcomes to special education.</p>A Comparative Study of Reading Instruction Management for Selected Third-grade Students in an Urban School District2014-03-26T09:30:20-05:00https://digital.library.unt.edu/ark:/67531/metadc279202/<p><a href="https://digital.library.unt.edu/ark:/67531/metadc279202/"><img alt="A Comparative Study of Reading Instruction Management for Selected Third-grade Students in an Urban School District" title="A Comparative Study of Reading Instruction Management for Selected Third-grade Students in an Urban School District" src="https://digital.library.unt.edu/ark:/67531/metadc279202/small/"/></a></p><p>The specific purposes of the study were (1) to determine the effectiveness of ECRI (Exemplary Center for Reading Instruction), as compared to "traditional" (basal driven) classroom instruction based on a comparative analysis of norm-referenced test data; (2) to determine if there was a significant difference between Blacks, Hispanics and Caucasians on the Vocabulary and Reading Comprehension portions of the Iowa Test of Basic Skills among the third grade ECRI students; and (3) to provide valid information for those charged with the implementation of reading instruction in the Dallas Independent School District, Dallas, Texas.</p>Strategic Planning: Process and Evaluation2014-03-26T09:30:20-05:00https://digital.library.unt.edu/ark:/67531/metadc279126/<p><a href="https://digital.library.unt.edu/ark:/67531/metadc279126/"><img alt="Strategic Planning: Process and Evaluation" title="Strategic Planning: Process and Evaluation" src="https://digital.library.unt.edu/ark:/67531/metadc279126/small/"/></a></p><p>Strategic planning practices and superintendents' opinions regarding the effectiveness of strategic planning are different among small, medium, and large Texas independent school districts. This study sought to find areas of agreement and areas of disagreement among school district superintendents relating to the practice and effectiveness of strategic planning. Strategic planning practices examined include the development of a mission statement, operating plan, and budget; involvement of stakeholders, and strategic planning logistics. A stratified random sample of 96 superintendents each from small, medium, and large school districts was selected from a population of 1,042 school districts. Data was also collected and reported from the 7 mega school districts. Questionnaires were sent to 295 superintendents and 246 (83.4%) were returned. The questionnaire contained nine questions relating to 19 strategic planning practices and a five-part question relating to the effectiveness of strategic planning. The data was analyzed using Crosstabs, Chi-square, and one-way ANOVA statistics. The level of significance was established a priori at .05. School district size was an independent variable for six strategic planning practices of small, medium, and large school districts. Significant differences were found regarding (a) whether outside consultants were employed to assist with the district's strategic planning, (b) whether central office administrators participated in the district's planning process, (c) whether a sequence of steps was followed with a time frame for each step in the district's planning process, (d) whether someone other than the superintendent was responsible for the district's planning, (e) whether school district support staff participated in the district's planning process, and (f) whether students participated in the district's planning process. Also, a significant difference was found between large school district superintendents' and small school district superintendents' ratings of the effectiveness of strategic planning for improving management effectiveness. Finally, a correlation was observed between superintendents' ratings of strategic planning effectiveness and professional skill sets.</p>Principals' Perceptions of Organizational Practices and Decision Making Roles in Middle Level Schools2014-03-26T09:30:20-05:00https://digital.library.unt.edu/ark:/67531/metadc279167/<p><a href="https://digital.library.unt.edu/ark:/67531/metadc279167/"><img alt="Principals' Perceptions of Organizational Practices and Decision Making Roles in Middle Level Schools" title="Principals' Perceptions of Organizational Practices and Decision Making Roles in Middle Level Schools" src="https://digital.library.unt.edu/ark:/67531/metadc279167/small/"/></a></p><p>The problem addressed in this study was whether middle level schools have adopted currently held research findings with respect to organizational structure and decision making processes promoted by the work of the Carnegie Foundation and various state agencies. Purposes included determining the perceptions of principals in schools utilizing interdisciplinary teams of teachers regarding the roles of principals and teachers in decision making processes, differences in campus performance on the Texas Assessment of Academic Skills and specific demographic variables in comparison to perceptions of principals in schools not utilizing interdisciplinary teams on these same questions.</p>A Comparison of the Relative Effectiveness of Mainstream Versus Pullout Treatment Programs in Addressing the Needs of At-Risk Students2014-03-26T09:30:20-05:00https://digital.library.unt.edu/ark:/67531/metadc279002/<p><a href="https://digital.library.unt.edu/ark:/67531/metadc279002/"><img alt="A Comparison of the Relative Effectiveness of Mainstream Versus Pullout Treatment Programs in Addressing the Needs of At-Risk Students" title="A Comparison of the Relative Effectiveness of Mainstream Versus Pullout Treatment Programs in Addressing the Needs of At-Risk Students" src="https://digital.library.unt.edu/ark:/67531/metadc279002/small/"/></a></p><p>The purpose of the study was to compare the relative benefits of treating at-risk students, those considered to be potential dropouts, by separating them into special classes at a separate facility—a pullout program—versus having them remain in regular classes with periodic supplemental counseling based upon individual needs—a mainstream program. To carry out the purpose of the study, students enrolled in the two types of treatment programs were compared in respect to retention in school, attendance, academic achievement based upon pretest and posttest scores, report card grades, and attitude toward school.</p>State Participation in Funding Capital Projects and Improvements in Texas Public Schools2014-03-26T09:30:20-05:00https://digital.library.unt.edu/ark:/67531/metadc278877/<p><a href="https://digital.library.unt.edu/ark:/67531/metadc278877/"><img alt="State Participation in Funding Capital Projects and Improvements in Texas Public Schools" title="State Participation in Funding Capital Projects and Improvements in Texas Public Schools" src="https://digital.library.unt.edu/ark:/67531/metadc278877/small/"/></a></p><p>The impact of four basic capital project funding models for state participation was determined for the school districts in Texas. A review of the historical background for funding of capital projects and improvements by states was followed by a review of the historical background of state support for funding capital projects in the State of Texas. Additionally, the current funding models and methods of determining need were reviewed for all of the states. This historical review revealed that facility funding, like aid for maintenance and operation, has evolved with all the states at different stages.</p>The Role of the Principal in Implementing Change in the Professional Development School2014-03-26T09:30:20-05:00https://digital.library.unt.edu/ark:/67531/metadc278893/<p><a href="https://digital.library.unt.edu/ark:/67531/metadc278893/"><img alt="The Role of the Principal in Implementing Change in the Professional Development School" title="The Role of the Principal in Implementing Change in the Professional Development School" src="https://digital.library.unt.edu/ark:/67531/metadc278893/small/"/></a></p><p>This qualitative research study investigated the role of the principal in implementing change in the professional development school (PDS). The study involved 7 elementary schools and 4 school-university collaboratives in the Texas network of 17 Centers for Professional Development and Technology (CPDTs). The research questions focused on the role, leadership, and management concerns of the PDS principal.</p>Computer Simulation Placements in a Unit of Instruction2014-03-26T09:30:20-05:00https://digital.library.unt.edu/ark:/67531/metadc278685/<p><a href="https://digital.library.unt.edu/ark:/67531/metadc278685/"><img alt="Computer Simulation Placements in a Unit of Instruction" title="Computer Simulation Placements in a Unit of Instruction" src="https://digital.library.unt.edu/ark:/67531/metadc278685/small/"/></a></p><p>Educators considering implementing a computer simulation must decide on the optimum placement of the simulation in the unit of instruction to maximize student learning. This study examined student achievement using two different placements for the computer simulation, The Civil War, in a unit of instruction of 8th grade American History students in a suburban middle school.</p>The Effect of Time on Computer-Assisted Instruction For At-Risk Students2014-03-26T09:30:20-05:00https://digital.library.unt.edu/ark:/67531/metadc278733/<p><a href="https://digital.library.unt.edu/ark:/67531/metadc278733/"><img alt="The Effect of Time on Computer-Assisted Instruction For At-Risk Students" title="The Effect of Time on Computer-Assisted Instruction For At-Risk Students" src="https://digital.library.unt.edu/ark:/67531/metadc278733/small/"/></a></p><p>The problem of this study was to determine if the mathematics achievement of at-risk students using computer-assisted instruction (CAI) differed significantly from other groups of students.</p>An Analysis of a Major State and a Small Local Newspaper Reporting on Public Education in the Years 1988 and 19932014-03-26T09:30:20-05:00https://digital.library.unt.edu/ark:/67531/metadc278739/<p><a href="https://digital.library.unt.edu/ark:/67531/metadc278739/"><img alt="An Analysis of a Major State and a Small Local Newspaper Reporting on Public Education in the Years 1988 and 1993" title="An Analysis of a Major State and a Small Local Newspaper Reporting on Public Education in the Years 1988 and 1993" src="https://digital.library.unt.edu/ark:/67531/metadc278739/small/"/></a></p><p>This study was conducted to analyze the differences in the news coverage of public education by a state and local newspaper, to ascertain if trends exist in the coverage of topics, and if the coverage is negative, positive, or neutral. All issues of The Dallas Morning News and The Piano Star Courier from the years 1988 and 1993 were evaluated. All articles about public education (with the exception of athletics, obituaries, and advertisements) were evaluated using a content analysis form. The content analysis form provided information for classifying all articles. Information was tallied for the number of articles and column inches by newspaper and category. Findings indicated a number of differences between the two newspapers in 1988 and 1993. The Dallas Morning News increased the number of articles and column inches of space it committed to the coverage of public education from 1988 to 1993. During the same period The Piano Star Courier reduced both the number of articles and column inches of space which it used for the topic of education. The Piano Star Courier began publishing editions on only five of the seven days per week in February, 1993. The Dallas Morning News reduced its local coverage and increased its coverage of state and national education topics during the same period. The change in coverage was shown through the increased number of articles and space allocated to state and national topics. Changes also occurred in the number of negative articles published by the newspapers. The Dallas Morning News increased the number of negative articles as it focused on state and national news. The Piano Star Courier reduced the number of negative articles as it focused on local topics. The findings also indicate that certain categories of articles are more likely to present education in a positive manner. Local education news stories are more likely to be positive than state or national stories. Personal stories about students and/or teachers tend to represent schools in a positive light. The topics of discipline, vandalism, finance, and administration usually have a more negative effect. Findings reveal that differing trends exist in major state and local newspaper coverage of public education. Knowledge of these trends can help educators promote a positive image of public education.</p>A Comparative Study of the Impact of the Total Quality Management Program on Exit Level Texas Assessment of Academic Skills Scores2014-03-24T20:07:29-05:00https://digital.library.unt.edu/ark:/67531/metadc277696/<p><a href="https://digital.library.unt.edu/ark:/67531/metadc277696/"><img alt="A Comparative Study of the Impact of the Total Quality Management Program on Exit Level Texas Assessment of Academic Skills Scores" title="A Comparative Study of the Impact of the Total Quality Management Program on Exit Level Texas Assessment of Academic Skills Scores" src="https://digital.library.unt.edu/ark:/67531/metadc277696/small/"/></a></p><p>The management style being used by school personnel in Texas and across the nation today is predominately that of a bureaucracy. This model was organized around the industrial revolution that was exercising authority at the turn of the century. Writers and researchers have pointed out that such a model is not capable of providing students the knowledge and skills they will need to enter an increasingly demanding society. One management style relatively new to the educational arena today is that of Total Quality Management. This study reports the results of the impact of the training in those principles by measurement of student test scores.</p>Strategic Planning : A Process for Restructuring the Public Schools and Improving Community Support2014-03-24T20:07:29-05:00https://digital.library.unt.edu/ark:/67531/metadc277621/<p><a href="https://digital.library.unt.edu/ark:/67531/metadc277621/"><img alt="Strategic Planning : A Process for Restructuring the Public Schools and Improving Community Support" title="Strategic Planning : A Process for Restructuring the Public Schools and Improving Community Support" src="https://digital.library.unt.edu/ark:/67531/metadc277621/small/"/></a></p><p>The problem of this study was to determine the change in public support which would occur due to a public school district's going through a strategic planning process and then the implementation of specific action plans. The purpose of the study was to demonstrate that the public support necessary to assure adequate funding for the district's programs could be gained by involving the community in a broad-based planning effort and by demonstrating a concerted effort to implement the actions required by the plan.</p>The History of a Model Program for Urban Underrepresented Students to Access Higher Education, 1990-19952014-03-24T20:07:29-05:00https://digital.library.unt.edu/ark:/67531/metadc278206/<p><a href="https://digital.library.unt.edu/ark:/67531/metadc278206/"><img alt="The History of a Model Program for Urban Underrepresented Students to Access Higher Education, 1990-1995" title="The History of a Model Program for Urban Underrepresented Students to Access Higher Education, 1990-1995" src="https://digital.library.unt.edu/ark:/67531/metadc278206/small/"/></a></p><p>This study traced the development of the Equity 2000 Program in the Fort Worth Independent School District from its inception in 1990 to its sixth and final year as an exemplary program for equal access to higher education for minority and underserved youth. Program components included mathematics, counseling, staff development, academic enrichment activities, parent education and higher education linkages. Both primary and secondary sources were evaluated from the perspectives of internal and external criticism. The following conclusions were reached: 1) District policy must change if minority students are going to access algebra and geometry. 2) The lack of involvement of other curriculum areas created primarily a mathematics inservice program. 3) Required inservice was necessary to provide improved and more effective campus and district results. 4) The precollege guidance and counseling component needed integration with the mathematics component. 5) Lack of principals' involvement in the early development of the program contributed to uneven administrative support. 6) There was no definitive strategy for parental inclusion. 7) Funding sources were inadequate to fully implement all parts of the program. 8) There was limited participation of local institutions of higher education. 9) There was a lack of an ongoing, structured evaluation process to document the program's effectiveness. 10) Attitudes and perceptions of minority students and their parents about success in higher level mathematics courses can change over time. 11) The program was costly with limited documentation of the results. 12) Much of the training provided mathematics teachers and guidance counselors should be preservice instruction. The researcher made the following recommendations: conduct a historical study at each Equity site; continue the Summer Mathematics and Guidance Institutes; continue the Saturday Academy and the Algebra/Geometry Readiness Academies; provide outreach efforts to parents; provide precollege information to students and their parents; and provide related teacher and counselor preservice training.</p>Changes in Attitudes and Anxieties toward Teaching of Interns and Traditional Student Teachers2014-03-24T20:07:29-05:00https://digital.library.unt.edu/ark:/67531/metadc278295/<p><a href="https://digital.library.unt.edu/ark:/67531/metadc278295/"><img alt="Changes in Attitudes and Anxieties toward Teaching of Interns and Traditional Student Teachers" title="Changes in Attitudes and Anxieties toward Teaching of Interns and Traditional Student Teachers" src="https://digital.library.unt.edu/ark:/67531/metadc278295/small/"/></a></p><p>The problem of this study was to determine the difference in attitude and anxieties toward the teaching profession of beginning teachers entering public education in Texas who have been through a semester-long intern program as opposed to those who have gone through a traditional eight-week student teaching program. Purposes of the study were to provide assessment data for planning and delivering preservice training experiences to prospective teachers, to compare similarities and differences in the attitudes of prospective teachers who have been through the intern program with those who have been in traditional student teaching, and to provide useful information to colleges and universities concerning the effectiveness of their teacher education programs. The targeted study groups were 22 fall semester interns and a comparison group of 27 fall semester traditional student teachers. All participants were seeking secondary certification. The study was conducted in the fall of 1994. The groups were matched according to gender, chronological age, race designation, grade-point-average, and level of family income. In summary, the findings of this study indicate that only two of the six research questions proved to be statistically significant. It is interesting to note, however, that individually a significant percentage of both of the groups showed a reduction in anxiety and a significant percentage of both groups showed a reduced positive attitude toward teaching as a profession. It is only for the student teachers, however, that the results were statistically significant for both tests.</p>Title IX of the Educational Amendments of 1972: Level of Implementation in Texas Public Schools2014-03-24T20:07:29-05:00https://digital.library.unt.edu/ark:/67531/metadc278329/<p><a href="https://digital.library.unt.edu/ark:/67531/metadc278329/"><img alt="Title IX of the Educational Amendments of 1972: Level of Implementation in Texas Public Schools" title="Title IX of the Educational Amendments of 1972: Level of Implementation in Texas Public Schools" src="https://digital.library.unt.edu/ark:/67531/metadc278329/small/"/></a></p><p>Using a survey and case study formats, this study focused on the level of understanding and implementation of Title IX relating to Texas public school students. The survey focused on the degrees of principal understanding and the compliance with the statute. Additional areas of study analyzed the impact of such factors as principal gender and school level on understanding and implementation. The case study examined the degrees of implementation for a district that had experienced civil rights action and one that had not.</p>Effect of Three Different Types of High School Class Schedules (Traditional, Rotating Block, and Accelerated Block) on High School Biology Achievement and on Differences in Science Learning Environments2014-03-24T20:07:29-05:00https://digital.library.unt.edu/ark:/67531/metadc278645/<p><a href="https://digital.library.unt.edu/ark:/67531/metadc278645/"><img alt="Effect of Three Different Types of High School Class Schedules (Traditional, Rotating Block, and Accelerated Block) on High School Biology Achievement and on Differences in Science Learning Environments" title="Effect of Three Different Types of High School Class Schedules (Traditional, Rotating Block, and Accelerated Block) on High School Biology Achievement and on Differences in Science Learning Environments" src="https://digital.library.unt.edu/ark:/67531/metadc278645/small/"/></a></p><p>This study analyzes the effect of three different high school scheduling options on the delivery of biology instruction, on student achievement, and on student perceptions of their instructional activities. Participants were biology students and teachers from twelve high schools in a north Texas urban school district of 76,000. Block classes had 11 to 18 percent less instructional time than traditional classes. Texas Biology I End-of-Course Examination achievement results for 3,195 students along with student and teacher surveys provided information on instructional activities, attitudes, and individualization. Using an analysis of variance at a j i< .01 the following results were found; student achievement was significantly different for each of the scheduled comparisons groups, test score means were not statistically significant between the scheduled comparison groups for different ethnic groups, economically disadvantaged students, and magnet students. No significant differences were found between the science learning activity index for each of the scheduled groups. Student response data when disaggregrated and reaggregrated into program groups found a statistically significant higher index of science activity at a p. < .01 for magnet students when compared to both the regular and honor students. Regular program students had a significantly higher index of individualization than honors program students. Accelerated and rotating block classes were found to hold a significantly more positive attitude about their science learning conditions than did the traditional students. These data suggest that during the first two years of block scheduling, the initial impact of block scheduling, where total time for science is reduced, results in lower student achievement scores when compared to traditionally scheduled classes. Yet, block scheduled student attitudes and perceptions about science learning are significantly more positive than the traditionally scheduled students.</p>Role Conflict and the School Resource Officer Position2014-03-24T20:07:29-05:00https://digital.library.unt.edu/ark:/67531/metadc278581/<p><a href="https://digital.library.unt.edu/ark:/67531/metadc278581/"><img alt="Role Conflict and the School Resource Officer Position" title="Role Conflict and the School Resource Officer Position" src="https://digital.library.unt.edu/ark:/67531/metadc278581/small/"/></a></p><p>This was a quantitative study designed to determine the role orientation and role behavior of school resource officers in public secondary schools in a metropolitan area of central Texas. The perception of role orientation and role behavior was assessed by two relevant groups: secondary school principals and school resource officers. Each group's perception of role orientation and role behavior was compared to determine if role conflict was an inhibiting factor in the job performance of the recently created school resource officer position. This instrument relied heavily on the work of James Telb who conducted a 1982 study involving the role perceptions of public safety officers in public institutions of higher learning as viewed by senior patrol officers and campus judicial officers. A questionnaire was distributed to both groups to assess perceptions of role orientation of school resource officers as either service oriented or law enforcement oriented. A statistically significant difference in role orientation was identified between groups on two factors: maintenance of traditional police values and police discretionary powers and handling of behavioral scenarios.</p>An Analysis of the Management and Leadership Development Training Needs of Texas Principals on the Texas State Board of Education's Core Curriculum2014-03-24T20:07:29-05:00https://digital.library.unt.edu/ark:/67531/metadc278600/<p><a href="https://digital.library.unt.edu/ark:/67531/metadc278600/"><img alt="An Analysis of the Management and Leadership Development Training Needs of Texas Principals on the Texas State Board of Education's Core Curriculum" title="An Analysis of the Management and Leadership Development Training Needs of Texas Principals on the Texas State Board of Education's Core Curriculum" src="https://digital.library.unt.edu/ark:/67531/metadc278600/small/"/></a></p><p>The problem of this study was to determine training priorities as mandated by the Texas Legislature on the CORE Curriculum for Management and Leadership Development and their implications for Texas public school principals. Purposes of the study were to validate an instrument for assessing principals' training needs, to provide data for planning and delivering training for principals, to provide results to staff developers, and to develop a profile of similarities and differences in the perceptions of principals and their superordinates.</p>