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Assistant principals’ perceptions of meaningful mentoring and professional development opportunities

Bruce G. Barnett (Educational Leadership and Policy Studies, University of Texas at San Antonio, San Antonio, Texas, USA)
Alan R. Shoho (School of Education, University of Wisconsin, Milwaukee, Wisconsin, USA)
Nathern S.A. Okilwa (Educational Leadership and Policy Studies, University of Texas at San Antonio, San Antonio, Texas, USA)

International Journal of Mentoring and Coaching in Education

ISSN: 2046-6854

Article publication date: 4 December 2017

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Abstract

Purpose

When assistant principals experience positive mentoring and professional development, they can obtain valuable knowledge and leadership skills from these learning opportunities. To better understand the formal and informal mechanisms assistant principals use to expand their knowledge and skills, the purpose of this paper is to examine important advice mentors provided for them and the professional learning activities that prepare them for their school leadership roles.

Design/methodology/approach

Semi-structured interviews with 69 elementary, middle, and high school assistant principals were conducted. Questions focused on the advice mentors have provided and significant learning experiences that have aided in their growth as school leaders.

Findings

Results reveal that assistant principals greatly appreciate insights from mentors about how to enhance decision-making skills, improve people and communication skills, reflect on their personal qualities and capabilities, and clarify their values and beliefs. Their preferred means for professional growth is to work with former and current administrators they trust and respect.

Originality/value

This study goes beyond examining the structural and procedural aspects of mentoring by describing highly valued advice provided by mentors affecting assistant principals’ professional development and growth. For mentoring to be effective, this study suggests that mentors should provide opportunities for assistant principals to develop their decision-making, people, and communication skills as well to clarify their personal capabilities, values, and beliefs.

Keywords

Citation

Barnett, B.G., Shoho, A.R. and Okilwa, N.S.A. (2017), "Assistant principals’ perceptions of meaningful mentoring and professional development opportunities", International Journal of Mentoring and Coaching in Education, Vol. 6 No. 4, pp. 285-301. https://doi.org/10.1108/IJMCE-02-2017-0013

Publisher

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Emerald Publishing Limited

Copyright © 2017, Emerald Publishing Limited

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