Reform Under Turbulence: Leveraging Accreditation to Improve Principal Preparation Programs

Authors

David L. Conrad, Governors State UniversityFollow
Jeannine Klomes, Governors State UniversityFollow

Files

Academic Unit

College of Education and Human Development

Publication Date

2021

Document Type

Article

Abstract

One principal preparation program in Illinois experienced severe turbulence following the statewide redesign of all principal preparation programs. Myriad problems contributed to a cascading turbulence that negatively skewed stakeholder perceptions of program quality. In addition, the program failed two national accreditation submissions and faced the looming deadline for a final submission attempt. Using the conceptual framework of Turbulence Theory, this self-study illuminates how the program leveraged the accreditation process to quickly lower the turbulence level. Accreditation brought focused reflection and improvement, resulting in program stability, improved program outcomes, and full national recognition. Principal preparation programs are encouraged to use accreditation for collaborative reflection, study, and improvement.

Journal Title

International Journal of Educational Leadership Preparation

Volume

16

Issue

1

ISSN

1532-0723

Beginning Page Number

106

Last Page Number

121

Recommended Citation

Conrad, David L. and Klomes, Jeannine, "Reform Under Turbulence: Leveraging Accreditation to Improve Principal Preparation Programs" (2021). Faculty Authors and Creators Reception. 303.
https://opus.govst.edu/fac/303