Executive Leadership in School Improvement Networks: A Conceptual Framework and Agenda for Research

Abstract

The purpose of this analysis is to improve understanding of executive leadership in school improvement networks: for example, networks supported by comprehensive school reform providers, charter management organizations, and education management organizations. In this analysis, we review the literature on networks and executive leadership. We draw on research in organization and management to develop a conceptual framework to structure initial, exploratory research. And we propose a research agenda aimed at comparing executive practice, knowledge, and learning a) within different types of school improvement networks (e.g., CSRs, CMOs, and EMOs) and b) between networks and institutionalized education agencies (state, regional, and local).