The Degree of Progressivism Among Arkansas Public School Superintendents

This book discusses attitudes of Arkansas public school superintendents toward education in light of two opposing viewpoints: essentialism and progressivism. The study provides a comparative analysis of the essentialist and progressive schooling process and the role of the administrator. It also looks at the implications for working with adminstrators for educational change. Information is collected regarding (a) opinions about the need to restructure Arkansas schools and (b) factors contributing to/or inhibiting local restructuring efforts. The survey response rate was 78%, and the author concludes that there does not appear to be a great extent of progressivism among superintendents in this study. Witcher argues that, based upon the results of this study, Arkansas educational reformers may need to examine their methods for promoting change. This book will appeal to those persons enrolled in programs for educational administration and leadership, courses in educational foundations, and anyone interested in working with school superintendents (and other personnel for educational change).