Date of Submission

Summer 6-9-2017

Document Type

Dissertation/Thesis

Degree

Doctor of Education

Department

Education

OIP Defense Chair

Dr. Elan Paulson

Keywords

Developmental Disabilities, Challenging Behaviour, Transformational Leadership, Distributed Leadership

Abstract

This Organizational Improvement Plan seeks to understand how school and school board leaders at Ontario Catholic District School Board (OCDSB) can increase the sense of social belonging for students with Developmental Disabilities who exhibit challenging behaviour. Bolman and Deal’s (2013) Four Frames model and Maslow’s (1943) Hierarchy of Needs are the frameworks used that assist in identifying potential factors that may be impeding the organization from achieving change. A PESTE analysis as presented by Cawsey, Deszca, and Ingols (2016) is conducted that outlines the political, economic, social, technological, and environmental factors that impact this Problem of Practice. These factors and their potential impact on the role educational leaders play in developing a sense of social belonging for students with Developmental Disabilities who exhibit challenging behaviour are discussed. The role of unions for both teachers and support personnel are discussed, especially in relation to Joint Health and Safety Committee meetings in which union representatives bring forward employee concerns regarding workplace violence, employee safety, job participation, and concerns regarding increased staff absenteeism.

Transformational leadership is discussed as it relates to changing perceptions of students with Developmental Disabilities who exhibit challenging behaviour. Implementing change throughout the various levels within the organization will be discussed through the lens of distributed leadership. Considering the gap analysis, tools used to frame change include Bolman and Deal’s (2013) Four Frames model, Maslow’s (1943) Hierarchy of Needs, and Professional Development Continuums. Suggestions for the future state of the organization are identified and align with the Multi-Year Strategic Plan (MYSP). Limitations of the proposal are discussed.

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