Navigating uncertainty during crisis: Insights into the experiences of three Western Australian principals

Author Identifier

Michelle Striepe: https://orcid.org/0000-0003-0216-5805

Document Type

Book Chapter

Publication Title

Leading Schools Through and Beyond the Pandemic

Volume

167

Publisher

Information Age Publishing

School

School of Education

RAS ID

70417

Comments

Striepe, M. (2024). Navigating uncertainty during crisis: Insights into the experiences of three Western Australian principals. In Leading Schools Through and Beyond the Pandemic (pp. 33-49). Information Age Publishing. https://www.infoagepub.com/products/Leading-Schools-Through-and-Beyond-the-Pandemic

Abstract

This chapter examines the experiences of three principals in Western Australia, where border closures created a distinct experience of the crisis. These leaders adapted their leadership style to prioritize relationships, communica tion, and care throughout the crisis. The analysis of the principals’ approach highlights how leaders drew upon their prior experiences and personality traits to navigate new and complex responsibilities. The findings also show the significance of care and teamwork because of the increased social and emotional needs of the school’s stakeholders, particularly staff. Additionally, the chapter shows the extent to which these principals’ leadership practice has changed as a result of dealing with the challenges of the crisis. Overall, the findings build on the previous and emerging findings of navigating crises; highlighting how leaders had to adapt and evolve their leadership practices over the course of the COVID-19 pandemic.

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