Action Research: Meeting the Needs of Students—It’s More than Just Your ABCs

A teacher is rebuffed when trying to interest her school in implementing a new program that she believes will well serve middle-school students—in both the short- and long-term.  This case delves into struggles teachers face with becoming leaders in their schools—including whether to leave the classroom for a principal’s office. 

Discussion Questions

1. What might Ms. Justiniano do from within her role as a teacher to develop the college-visit program?
2. What strategies could Ms. Justiniano employ to develop allies at her school?
3. How can Ms. Justiniano deal effectively with the members of the School Leadership Team?
4. What mechanisms might be put in place so that all members of School Leadership Teams, or any school-based teams, feel they have a voice in decision-making?