Date of Award
Summer 5-26-2022
Degree Type
Dissertation
Degree Name
Doctor of Education in Educational Leadership for Learning Dissertations
Department
Educational Leadership
Committee Chair
Dr. Jen Wells
Committee Chair/First Advisor
Dr. Arvin Johnson
Second Committee Member
Dr. Miyoshi Juergensen
Abstract
This research study examined effective communication strategies with African American families for secondary educational leaders. The purpose of this investigation was to explore African American family engagement within an urban school district. Interviews were conducted with 14 parent participants and the data was analyzed utilizing the ATLAS.ti survey software. The findings were that overall, parents were pleased with the amount and modes of technology that schools utilized for communication. Parents were also satisfied with the high school experiences of their children; however, many parents preferred more personal contact and in-person interactions with the teachers and administrative staff. Parents also felt that students were more engaged in the school setting when schools strived to build effective relationships with school, parents, students, and teachers. Recommendations for further research and practice include conducting more needs assessments and surveys to include teachers, students, and other community stakeholders to increase effective family engagement.