Principal rotation in China: policy goals and succession strategies adopted by rotated principals
Journal of Educational Administration
ISSN: 0957-8234
Article publication date: 17 May 2024
Issue publication date: 12 June 2024
Abstract
Purpose
This study examines principal rotation in China to gain empirical insights from the policy analysis and succession strategies that principals employ to gain internal and external support in their new schools.
Design/methodology/approach
We employed document analysis and a case study approach. Interviews were conducted with officials in 5 local educational agencies and 40 principals from 5 different regions who were undergoing rotation. Thematic analysis was used to identify common patterns and themes in the interview responses.
Findings
We explored how the principal-rotation policy was implemented, including the goals, standards, targeted principals, tools and other aspects of the policy in China. The study revealed the challenges faced by the rotated principals and their succession strategies.
Originality/value
Our study contributes to the field of educational leadership by shedding light on the implementation and impact of principal rotation in mainland China.
Keywords
Acknowledgements
The authors wish to acknowledge the funding support of National Social Science Funding for Education, Project (No. BFA210075) Chinese innovation on principals’ knowledge governance in school networks.
Citation
Zheng, Y., Qian, H., Chen, S. and Walker, A.D. (2024), "Principal rotation in China: policy goals and succession strategies adopted by rotated principals", Journal of Educational Administration, Vol. 62 No. 4, pp. 388-402. https://doi.org/10.1108/JEA-06-2023-0125
Publisher
:Emerald Publishing Limited
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