Date of Award

6-15-2024

Document Type

Dissertation

Degree Name

Ph.D.

Organizational Unit

Morgridge College of Education, Educational Leadership and Policy Studies

First Advisor

Kristina A. Hesbol

Second Advisor

Erin Anderson

Third Advisor

Lolita Tabron

Keywords

Culturally responsive school leadership, Education policy, Educational leadership, Newcomer program, Newcomers, Refugee and immigrant students

Abstract

This qualitative case study focuses on the pivotal role of an urban elementary school leadership team with a newcomer program. It aims to uncover how school leadership decisions, practices, and policies address the diverse needs of newcomer students. Challenges faced by newcomers, including economic and social needs, cultural adjustments, and potential feelings of alienation despite academic success, are explored. The tension between preserving home culture and adapting to a new one adds complexity to newcomer students’ identity formation.

This study examines the practices of a newcomer school leader who addresses the diverse needs of vulnerable newcomer students. With schools being the primary point of contact for many newcomers, these leaders are responsible for establishing support systems and providing learning materials, especially for students who missed schooling due to conflicts or displacement. It explores key themes in newcomer education essential for creating an inclusive learning environment. The findings focus on restructuring the newcomer program and implementing innovative strategies to enhance its effectiveness. Additionally, it highlights the impact of leadership on educational outcomes, emphasizing the importance of a diverse leadership team in shaping an engaging school climate within newcomer schools.

This study's significance lies in its exploration of leadership's critical role in school reform, particularly in empowering newcomer school leaders through effective professional development. It addresses unique challenges in teaching and learning, proposing tailored programs for educators in the newcomer education sector. This comprehensive exploration not only contributes valuable insights to the discourse on newcomer education but also offers actionable recommendations for educators, policymakers, and stakeholders committed to fostering an inclusive and empowering educational environment for all students. By implementing these recommendations, stakeholders can actively work towards addressing the unique challenges faced by newcomer students and promoting their academic success and well-being. Furthermore, the findings from this study serve as a foundation for further research and dialogue in the field of newcomer education, encouraging ongoing collaboration and innovation to better support the needs of this diverse student population.

Copyright Date

6-2024

Copyright Statement / License for Reuse

All Rights Reserved
All Rights Reserved.

Publication Statement

Copyright is held by the author. User is responsible for all copyright compliance.

Rights Holder

Ahmad Fayaz Amiri

Provenance

Received from ProQuest

File Format

application/pdf

Language

English (eng)

Extent

214 pgs

File Size

1.8 MB

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