A dissertation completed at
The Center for Education, Widener University,
One University Place, Chester, PA 19013 		 
Perceptions of Female School Administrators of How Legislative Action, Female Leadership Characteristics, and Recent Employment Opportunities Relate to Obtainment of a Leadership Position
Joann M. Hudak, Ed. D.
August 2000

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edited 01/03/01

 


ABSTRACT

Research indicates that women who attempt to enter or encounter to direct advance into educational leadership positions obstacles ranging from sex-role stereotyping prejudice and discrimination. Despite legislation designed to ensure equal opportunity for females in the workforce and a significant body of research regarding the effectiveness of the female leader, women continue to be underrepresented in educational administration.

The history of women in leadership reveals that the "Golden Age" for females in education occurred in the 1920's and 1930's. Although monumental strides were made for females during this time period, internal and external pressures resulted in a rapid decline in the number of females in the "power positions" of school administration. The review of literature suggests that, although these barriers still exist, there is a framework of education and legislation that should support entry and advancement of females in educational administration

The purpose of this study was to determine whether current female administrators perceive this framework as effective in relation to their obtaining an administrative position. A random sample of female administrators in the Commonwealth of Pennsylvania were asked to respond to questions regarding three factors: 1) the effects of the legal framework designed to support female advancement; 2) the effects of heightened awareness of the effectiveness of women in general as leaders; and 3) the effects of early retirement legislation on employment opportunities.

Through examination of the experiences of current female school administrators, an awareness of the perceived effectiveness of these measures will be revealed. In addition, the insight gleaned from the experiences of these women is expected to provide direction for further research.

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