Degree Date

12-2025

Document Type

Dissertation - Public Access

Degree Name

Ed.D. Doctor of Education

Academic Discipline

Educational Leadership

First Advisor

Dr. Lorrie Butler

Second Advisor

Dr. Carla Sparks

Abstract

The role of school principals in dropout prevention high schools is critical to enhancing federal cohort graduation rates. This study examined how principals in one dropout prevention high school organization influenced graduation rates. The purpose of this research study was to investigate the perceptions of stakeholders (including principals) on the relationship between principal influence in dropout prevention school success, as measured by federal cohort graduation rates, and to identify the strategies the principals used. Overarching research questions were developed to determine stakeholders' perceptions regarding the effectiveness of principals and their impact on the success of dropout prevention high schools. This utilization-focused program evaluation used a mixed-methods research approach. Data was collected using surveys, interviews, and extant data. Findings revealed that the perception of the majority of participants was that principal leadership styles and data utilization were of primary importance to enhancing federal cohort graduation rates in the dropout prevention high school organization under study. To further enhance graduation rates, it was recommended for principals to form a leadership team, align a culture plan and individual development plans with school improvement plans.

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