Date of Award
2026
Document Type
Dissertation
Degree Name
Doctor of Education (EdD)
Department
School of Education
First Advisor
Debra Espinor, EdD
Second Advisor
Shawn Daley, PhD
Abstract
This study examined leadership tenure among heads of Christian schools, where many serve five years or less. Frequent turnover can disrupt stability, weaken relationships, and limit a school’s ability to sustain its mission over time. Although leadership preparation has expanded within Christian education, limited empirical research has examined how organizational, personal, and program-related factors relate to leadership tenure.
Guided by the push–pull–equilibrium model of career mobility and the leadership competency framework, this study used a sequential explanatory mixed-methods design. Survey data from alumni of an executive leadership program for Christian school heads were analyzed to examine relationships between leadership tenure and organizational, personal, and program-related factors. Follow-up interviews provided additional insight into how leaders experienced and interpreted their tenure.
Quantitative data were analyzed using inferential statistics, and interview data were analyzed using reflexive thematic analysis. The quantitative results did not demonstrate statistically significant relationships between leadership tenure and organizational, personal, or program-related variables. Years since program completion demonstrated a statistically significant but time-dependent relationship with tenure, reflecting the accumulation of time in the role. Interview findings indicated that leaders who remained in their roles described leadership longevity in terms of growth over time, particularly in areas such as self-awareness, board relationships, and vocational calling.
The findings suggest that leadership longevity in Christian schools appears to develop through the interaction of personal growth, relational support, and vocational calling, emphasizing the importance of ongoing formation and support beyond initial training.
Recommended Citation
Carlson, Elisa J., "Faithful to the Finish: Investigating Executive Training and Leadership Tenure in Christian Schools" (2026). Doctor of Education (EdD). 268.
https://digitalcommons.georgefox.edu/edd/268