Date of Award
1-1-2025
Document Type
Dissertation
Degree Name
Ed.D. in Education
First Advisor
Jill Cabrera
Second Advisor
Doug Davis
Third Advisor
Braxton Stowe
School
University of Mississippi
Relational Format
dissertation/thesis
Abstract
Effective instructional leadership is essential for strengthening teachers’ instructional capacity and improving student outcomes. However, many assistant principals often lack the mentorship and targeted professional development needed to thrive in this critical role. Providing them with the right support can bridge this gap, empowering them to become transformative leaders in their schools. In this study, I explored the development and implementation of a mentorship program designed to strengthen the instructional leadership skills of assistant principals with the ultimate goal of enhancing student learning outcomes. Using an applied research design, I collected data through surveys, focus groups, and interviews with assistant principals and teachers of Rosewood School in Mountain Heights County School District. The findings indicated that structured mentorship fostered confidence, enhanced instructional decision making, and improved collaboration between assistant principals and teachers. The participants reported that mentorship opportunities provided practical strategies for providing high-quality feedback to teachers, leading effective collaborative planning sessions, and implementing data-driven instructional improvements. I concluded that a well-structured mentorship program for assistant principals can significantly affect instructional leadership effectiveness, leading to improved student outcomes. These findings have significant implications for school leaders who seek to develop strong instructional leadership programs. By equipping assistant principals with mentorship programming that encompasses support and professional development, schools can enhance teachers’ ability to deliver high-quality instruction, ultimately leading to improved student outcomes.
Recommended Citation
Scruggs, Shadonica Sharee, "Creating A Mentorship Program for Assistant Principals to Improve Instructional Leadership" (2025). Electronic Theses and Dissertations. 3382.
https://egrove.olemiss.edu/etd/3382