WHAT DID COVID CHANGE? A MULTIPLE CASE STUDY OF RURAL SCHOOL PRINCIPAL COMMUNICATION

Date

2021-12-16

Authors

Clifton, Amy Renee

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Abstract

Background: The rural school principal was faced with an unprecedented situation with the shutdown of schools due to the COVID-19 pandemic. The recent literature on schools and COVID-19 mainly focus on instructional practices. This article examines the communication practices in the rural setting for the campus leader. Purpose: The purpose of this research was to explore the difference that COVID-19 precautionary measures made on the communication practices of the rural school principal during the 2020-2021 academic school and beyond. It focused on the changes to the communication practices due to the response to COVID-19, and the rural school principal’s perceived changes on future communication practices. Research Design: The methodology was qualitative, specifically analyzing each principal as one of three case studies. The practices explored involved the interactions between the principal and the teachers, students, and parents. Findings: Three themes emerged from the virtual interviews. The use of technology for communication, targeted communication, and increased teacher support were the themes developed through analysis of the interview transcripts. These rural principals continually adapted to the increased workload, communicating with a more intentional, effective skillset. Conclusion: Principals were already utilizing good communication practices pre-COVID-19. With the school shutdowns and precautionary measures placed on school districts, rural school principals continued the use of emails, group texts, phone calls, and social media platforms to get information out and check on those they serve.

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Keywords

COVID-19, communication, leadership, rural school principal

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