Who Ya Gonna Call? Networks of Rural School Administrators

  • Julie M. Hite Brigham Young University
  • Bart Reynolds Southern Utah University
  • Steven J. Hite Brigham Young University

Abstract

When they need help or advice, who are rural school administrators going to call? Relationships among rural school administrators develop into networks that can affect the success of administrators and their schools. Understanding the structure and content of these networks provides insights into how resources, innovations, and communication flow both within and between rural district administrators. Based on network theory and analysis, this study examines the structure, content, and strategic implications of the administrative networks within and across six contiguous rural school districts in the Western United States. Network graphs are included, illustrating both individual district and the combined six-district rural administrator networks. While acquaintance ties and active work ties are evident both within and across districts, relationally embedded ties and greater cohesion of ties are more evident within districts than across districts. Analyses include consideration of administrative assignment, gender, and geographical location of the network structures. Strategic implications of the network structures and content are discussed.  

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Author Biographies

Julie M. Hite, Brigham Young University
Julie M. Hite, Ph.D. is an Associate Professor in Educational Leadership and Foundations at Brigham Young University. Her research focuses on strategic organizational networks and school performance.
Bart Reynolds, Southern Utah University
Dr. Bart Reynolds is an Assistant Professor of Graduate Studies in Education at Southern Utah University, and currently serves as the Director of Educational Leadership.
Steven J. Hite, Brigham Young University
Steven J. Hite is professor of educational research theory and methodology at Brigham Young University. His work focuses on improving educational opportunities for disadvantaged individuals, families and communities globally.  
Published
2010-11-15
How to Cite
Hite, J. M., Reynolds, B., & Hite, S. J. (2010). Who Ya Gonna Call? Networks of Rural School Administrators. The Rural Educator, 32(1). https://doi.org/10.35608/ruraled.v32i1.434
Section
Research Articles