A Multi-Case Study of Professional Ethics in Alternative Education: Exploring Perspectives of Alternative School Administrator

This qualitative case study explored perspectives of alternative school leaders regarding professional ethics and standards. The study researched two components of alternative school leadership: effective alternative school characteristics based on professional standards and making decisions around the best interests of students. This study reviewed the Exemplary Practices 2.0 from the National Alternative Education Association, the Professional Standards for Educational Leaders, and relevant literature to understand of effective leadership in alternative schools. Additionally, the study examined the ethic of the profession designed by Shapiro and Stefkovich (2011) to determine the appearance and practicality of the model in alternative school leadership within the framework of the aforementioned standards. Using qualitative research and case study methods, the research contributed to ethical leadership literature and alternative school leadership. As a narrative case study, this research interviewed alternative school administrators, observed them in their schools, reviewed school and district documents, and examined the contexts of each school to develop a broader understanding of alternative school leadership. All findings were reported as themes emerged among the participants of the study.