ABSTRACT

Title of Document: TEACHER LEADERS' PERCEPTIONS OF DISTRIBUTED LEADERSHIP PRACTICES IN MIDDLE SCHOOLS

Arthur Williams, Doctor of Education, 2013

Directed By: Dr. Carol Sheffey Parham, Department of Counseling, Higher Education, and Special Education

The primary purpose of this case study was to examine teacher leaders' perception of distributed leadership practices in two exemplary middle schools. Eight teacher leaders were selected to participate in this study. Qualitative data were gathered via one-on-one interviews and a review of artifacts from four teacher leaders at each school. The data were coded, categorized and clustered to produce themes. The research questions were addressed and descriptions were developed for each case. Findings indicate that there are several dimensions of distributed leadership that shape teacher leaders' practice. This study concluded with recommendations that center on the reconceptualization of teacher leadership practice, district and school based supports. Implication for practice and areas for future research was explored.