Author

Attia Noor

Date of Award

January 2020

Document Type

Dissertation

Degree Name

Doctor of Philosophy (PhD)

Department

Educational Leadership

First Advisor

Jared Schlenker

Second Advisor

Donna Pearson

Abstract

This ethnographic case study used the lens of multiculturalism to examine the role of a school principal in creating a climate in which New American students can thrive. Three discrete data gathering methods were utilized in this study including policy documents obtained from the school district website and the school, a two week period of in-school observations, and interviews of the principal and school staff members selected through purposive sampling. A focus group interview of parents was also used for data collection. Data were analyzed by using a constant comparative method to explore the meanings educators had attached to their work in relation to New American students. Seven broad themes emerged from the data with two themes being most important: acceptance, respect, and appreciation for diversity; and understanding the needs of New American students. Implications of this study may help to better prepare educators to address needs of the growing population of New American students in United States’ public schools.

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