Date Approved

2024

Degree Type

Open Access Dissertation

Degree Name

Doctor of Philosophy (PhD)

Department or School

Leadership and Counseling

Committee Member

David Anderson, PhD

Committee Member

Rob Carpenter, PhD

Committee Member

Davis Clement, PhD

Committee Member

Mort Sherman, EdD

Abstract

Public School educational leaders from around the United States are confronted with choices inhow to invest resources that can create the greatest impact for students. An often-overlooked area of investment is early childhood education. As defined by the National Association for the Education of Young Children (NAEYC), this is the period of development between birth through age 8 for any child. If a district were allowed to self-assess their own early learning readiness, will the leadership of that district be equipped and prepared to deliberate and make appropriately measured decisions based on current practices and utilized resources? This study seeks to explore how educational leaders, including superintendents, when confronted with the ability to self-evaluate their district’s early learning readiness, can uncover the impact early learning can have on the financial planning, facilities management, personnel decisions, family engagement, and the culture of their organization.

Share

COinS