Semester of Graduation
Spring 2026
Degree Type
Dissertation
Degree Name
Teacher Leadership
Department
Educational Leadership
Committee Chair/First Advisor
Dr. Melissa Driver
Second Advisor
Dr. Keneisha Harrington
Third Advisor
Dr. Jen Wells
Abstract
The purpose of this qualitative case study was to understand teachers’ perceptions of implementing an alternative curriculum in their self-contained special education settings and grade levels, as well as their perceptions of the training and ongoing support provided for its implementation. This study used a case study research design. Findings revealed that the participants experienced several challenges related to training, ongoing support, and curriculum implementation, including issues aligning the alternative curriculum with state standards and assessments. This study is significant because alternative curriculum implementation is under-researched in the United States, and the international literature on this topic is limited.