Successful Principal Strategies for Urban Schools: A Metasynthesis of Case Studies From 12 Countries

Abstract

Addressing the challenges of school turnaround in large urban K-12 areas is challenging and requires leadership practices that are both adaptive and proactive to the unique complexities of these settings. This study explores how successful principals transform schools and achieve student success in such settings. Drawing on 36 case studies across 12 countries from the International Successful School Principalship Project, this metasynthesis identifies successful principalship practices that transformed disadvantaged low-performing urban schools into higher-performing schools. Using a metaethnographic approach, the study highlights how these practices are both adapted to and shaped by the unique contextual challenges of urban environments, the dynamic interplay between leadership and local contexts. The findings of this study can be helpful to researchers, school leaders, and policymakers, parents. By offering evidence-based strategies, this study equips aspiring and in-service leaders, and policy-makers with tools to address inequities, revitalize schools, and sustain success in urban contexts.