Affiliation:
1. Wilkes University, USA
Abstract
This purpose of this qualitative study was to apply the four central tenets of Schlossberg's transition theory—situation, self, social support, and strategies—to the experiences of 10 international school leaders in 10 different countries who guided their schools through multiple transitions between in-person and virtual learning during the first year of the COVID-19 pandemic. The leaders' experiences shared five common elements: (1) feelings of pervasive and persistent uncertainty, (2) recognition of the importance of communication and shared leadership, (3) attention to providing for stakeholders' social and emotional and physical health, (4) the leaders' need to care for themselves, and (5) responding effectively required creativity and flexibility. The findings provide guidance for identifying priorities, developing leadership models, and the leadership characteristics and behaviors that can be effective during times of unexpected and far-reaching crisis.
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