A Qualitative Study of the Relationship between Parents and Administrators at an Elementary School in Virginia

Abstract

This study examined the relationship between administrators and parents at a high-performing elementary school in Virginia over the course of an academic year. The school has a population of parents who expect and require a high level of communication. The reviewed literature considered the importance of parental support in schools, but also the zeitgeist of “overparenting” and its influence on parents’ perceptions of their rights. Pilot interviews with mothers revealed parents expected and often demanded to be consistently informed. Interviews with administrators revealed that parents’ persistence could obstruct decisions made by administrators. Survey analysis revealed that academics, school safety, and “best interest of students” were concerns for parents.

During a final meeting with administration, survey results were discussed, and the principal and assistant principal identified a possible action plan for each theme illustrated by the survey. The hope is that by identifying and then addressing these issues that trust and communication between parents and administrators will grow and there will be a stronger relationship between stakeholders.