Date

7-21-2026

Department

School of Education

Degree

Doctor of Philosophy in Education (PhD)

Chair

Alex Oldham

Keywords

newcomer enrollment, enrollment surges, resource scarcity, transformational leadership, collaboration, adaptive leadership, relational leadership

Disciplines

Education | Educational Leadership

Abstract

The purpose of this qualitative multi-site case study was to explore how leadership team members in public schools supported educators during a sudden mid-year influx of newcomer students. The theory guiding this study was transformational leadership theory, which provided a framework for how leaders influence, motivate, and support those they lead, particularly during times of challenge and organizational change. The central research question guiding this study was: How did leadership team members support educators during a sudden mid-year influx of newcomer students across multiple public school sites? Ten participants were recruited through the researcher’s professional networks and snowball sampling and included school staff who served on leadership teams in public schools. Data were collected primarily through semi-structured individual interviews, supplemented by an optional participant reflection questionnaire, and member checking procedures. Data were analyzed using thematic analysis and Yin’s case study strategies, including pattern matching and explanation building, to identify leadership actions, emotional experiences, and organizational responses. Findings provided insight into how leadership teams navigated resource constraints, supported educator well-being, and facilitated collaborative problem-solving during periods of rapid demographic change.

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