A model of organizational and management practices of school improvement and staff development. A case study: The School District of the City of Saginaw, Saginaw, Michigan.

Abstract

In this single case study of the School District of the City of Saginaw, Saginaw, Michigan, the research question is: What factors were perceived to be responsible for improvements in standardized test scores in the School District of the City of Saginaw between 1978 and 1988 when the city was undergoing a severe economic decline and critical demographic shift? Utilizing a modified Delphi Technique, the researcher interviewed twenty-seven educators who were professionally affiliated with the school district to determine how the gains in student test scores occurred. The results of the interview questions showed a consensus between all the interviewees, that is, they agreed that the positive outcomes in Saginaw were due to a dynamic school improvement process that was based upon an effective system of staff development and improved curriculum (as well as other variables less influential, but perceived valuable by the interviewees). The identification process of these causative factors generated the variables (staff development, school improvement, curriculum, technology, strategic planning, leadership, communication, restructuring, change, etc.) and constructs that defined a model of the school improvement process in Saginaw, called the Saginaw Model by the researcher. The process also found gains additional to improved test scores, such as, improved teaching skills, improved attendance rates, declining drop-out rates, improved student discipline and consistent instructional practice. The variables and the dynamics that affect Saginaw are also critical to most urban districts, and are becoming critical to all school districts. As the school becomes the instrument of change as well as society's institution for learning, the school must respond with successful practice. The Saginaw Model represents one compelling example of a school district's effort to meet the needs of its community by achieving successful student outcomes.