The walls of division crumble as ears, mouths, minds and hearts open: a unified profession of middle-level administrators and teachers

Abstract

This research is dedicated to tearing down the hierarchical walls of administration and unifying the profession of school leaders and teachers. Data for this qualitative study of middle-level principals were collected from 72 surveys and 17 semi-structured interviews. The analysis introduces the middle school principal as a partner in this collaborative attempt to improve schools for students. They recognize the need for the bureaucratic walls of administrative construction to crumble and give way to professional autonomy, teacher efficacy and supportive environments that enhance teacher commitment and expertise. Through open doors, open ears, open mouths, open minds and open hearts, middle school principals are able to build effectively the necessary support for change. They are present and available, they listen attentively, they communicate appreciation and support, they collaborate and share decision making and, above all, obviously they enjoy what they are doing. The positive characteristics of these middle school leaders pave the way for the walls of division to crumble, and the call for a unified profession to strengthen.