Beliefs and Behaviors of Two High School Principals in Developing a Sense of School Community for Students

Abstract

This qualitative study investigated two high school principals’ articulation of establishing a sense of community. The principals’ narratives, values, beliefs, and behaviors are examined through the lens of community membership, fulfillment of needs, influence, and emotional connections. Findings show that the principals, leading schools with different contexts, both implemented structures and processes that addressed elements of the frame as foundation for student success. While the principals expressed similar beliefs regarding community, behavioral approaches differed in implementation.