This study will reveal leadership practices that formal leaders and their followers identify as contributing to sustainable change in schools through the analysis of trends in quantitative data and synthesis of related qualitative data. Explored within the framework of the Alberta Initiative for School Improvement (AISI), this study is a timely contribution to the provincial context of public education. From provincial politics to grass roots strategies in schools, this research complements the current literature base with an informed Albertan perspective on effective leadership for continous school improvement. The interviews in this study demonstrate leadership practices that are prevalent in schools with improvement projects through Cycle 1 of AISI and into Cycle 2. These practices correlate, in varying degrees, with a model of transformational leadership. As Cycle 2 enters its third and final year, AISI has served as a catalyst for leadership strategies creating a culture of continuous improvement. Momentum is building as teachers become accustomed to using a data to show how student learning is improving. Alberta Initiative for School Improvement has undeniably impacted the responsibilities and experiences of teachers in schools and has moved educational leadership along the spectrum from traditional to transformational. considerable work has been done to engage staff in decision-making and setting priorities for improvement, resulting in the mobilization of school communities looking for ways to ensure high quality learning opportunities for all. / ix, 78 leaves ; 29 cm.

This qualitative study employed various qualitative data collection procedures to report on leadership and program evaluation practices being utilized and explored witin the framework of the Alberta Initiative for School Improvement (AISI). The intent of this research was to highlight practices of teachers as leaders while determining the manner in which programs and initiatives are evaluated. Document review, a written questionnaire, and personl interviews were conducted to focus on the perspectives of school administrators and teachers involved in AISI projects. Patterns and themes were identified that illustrated the attitudes and opinions fo Alberta teachers and administrators with regard to the leadership strategies employed. These included ensuring the development of vision, mission, and improvement planning at the school level; emphasizing the importance of collaboration and teamwork; and promoting valuable organizational learning through the development of professional learning communities (PLCs). The evidence strongly suggests that Alberta teachers and administrators advocate the continuance of AISI in the province. There is some indication that both teachers and administrators are excited, although somewhat overwhelmed, by the protocol put in place through AISI. The study reveals various strategies that administrators employ to affect the sustainability of school improvement projects. / x, 182 leaves ; 29 cm.