Read Case Study b17 The Passive Principal on pages 113-117 in the attached Kowlaski textbook and answer questions 1-9 on pages 117-118.
Problem Framing
- Assume you are Mr. Bata. First determine the main issue (problem) in this case. Then describe the current state and the desired state of this issue. (The section on problem framing in the Introduction section of this book defines the problem framing process.)
- Based on evidence provided in the case, describe the difficulty associated with eliminating the gap between the present state and desired state.
Questions and Suggested Activities - Did the superintendent's approach to selecting pilot schools to implement SBM contribute to the conflict at Elm Street Elementary School? Why or why not?
- Do you agree with the principal's decision to permit council members to be elected? If you agree, what is your ration-ale? If you disagree, what would you have done differently?
- As the new principal, you could remove the four teachers from the competing factions from the council. What are the advantages and disadvantages of taking this action?
- Were members of the school council adequately pre-pared to assume their responsibility? What evidence do you have to defend your response?
- As the new principal, what role would you play on a school council?
- Was Mr. Batz's behavior indicative of a democratic leadership style? Why or why not?
- To what extent is Barbara Whitlow (the PTA president and council chair) responsible for the conflict described in this case?
- Based on your experiences in schools, how do non-administrators acquire power?
- Based on the information in this case, did the superintendent act prudently by removing Mr. Batz as principal?
Sample Solution