Elementary principals' perceptions of preferred, least preferred and major time-consuming job activities: A statewide survey

The purpose of this study was to determine how elementary principals perceived their preferred and least preferred job activities, major time requirements and their perceived ability to alter the focus of their jobs and overall job satisfaction. The four-frame model of Bolman and Deal (1997) provided the conceptual framework for this study.; This study included principals of elementary schools that contained the configuration of kindergarten through grade five regardless of the size of the student population. A survey designed by the researcher included multiple choice and open-ended questions. Structured items and written responses were included in the design of the survey in order to provide maximum opportunities for participants to express perceptions regarding job responsibilities.; The top two most preferred job responsibilities reported by elementary principals focused on interpersonal connections associated with the human resource frame: interacting with students and conducting informal classroom visits. Two structural frame activities, completing paperwork and handling discipline and behavior problems were the top least preferred job-related activities. The top two major time requirements were completing paperwork and managing the school.; A majority of respondents (74%) reported they had a need to shift the focus of their job activities to those they would most prefer addressing. The superintendent was reported as providing the major source of support for shifting the focus while the major stumbling block to change was budgetary constraints.; A total of 84% of respondents reported some level of satisfaction with their job as elementary principal. Some degree of dissatisfaction was reported by 17% of the principals who participated in this study.; The results of this study demonstrated that there is a high level of job satisfaction among elementary principals. Principals spend the majority of their time fulfilling responsibilities related to the structure of the organization but would prefer to spend their time addressing job-related activities that focus on interpersonal connections and organizational culture. Also, major time requirements for elementary principals do not vary based on the number of students enrolled in the school.