Abstract

Literature addressing the function of non-profit boards provides a beginning focus for this study. However, literature regarding Christian school governance issues is still fairly limited. As a result, most Christian school boards face challenges regarding expectations for their role and the role of the head of school (CEO). This quantitative study examined the differences between how Christian school board members and their CEO's believe they perform their roles and responsibilities as compared to how they believe they should perform those same roles and responsibilities. Analysis was conducted to identify the extent of the gap between the two views of "does perform" and "should perform" for each group, with further analysis focused on the gap between how the boards and CEO's perceived each other's performance. The study included 20 accredited Christian schools with 800 or more students in a Kindergarten through 12th grade program. These schools are located across the United States, representing a broad demographic area and operating with a variety of board structures. The research findings indicate Christian school boards believe there is a gap in their performance across all eight areas of function with current board function falling below desired function. Data reveals that while CEOs identified areas of concern, statistical analysis revealed no significant gaps so CEOs believe they are performing as they should in all eight functions. The findings of this study can assist boards in addressing areas for growth to improve their effectiveness in board leadership.

Library of Congress Subject Headings

Dissertations (EdD) -- Organizational leadership; School board members; Church schools

Date of Award

2011

School Affiliation

Graduate School of Education and Psychology

Department/Program

Education

Degree Type

Dissertation

Degree Name

Doctorate

Faculty Advisor

Madjidi, Farzin;

Download

Share

COinS