Date of Conferral

2016

Degree

Ph.D.

School

Information Systems and Technology

Advisor

Lilburn Hoehn

Abstract

Organizational failure in Christian schools is a common phenomenon affecting millions of families in the United States. In the past 2 decades alone, more than 200 Christian schools closed each year; and many continued to struggle for survival. This trend presented significant challenge for the sustainability of faith-based schools that serve over 10% of grade-level students in the country. The purpose of this study was to examine internal and external factors impacting the performance of Christian schools and analyze existing theories of institutional effectiveness leading to the development of a sustainable framework. The research question addressed what type of organizational change and performance improvement model is suitable for Christian schools. A total of 32 participants from 5 schools with roles varying from students, alumni, parents, teachers, administrators, board members, and industry experts were interviewed using purposeful sampling method based on their demonstrated leadership capacities. Grounded theory was used for data analysis in categorizing responses using keywords, and synthesizing functional themes that lead to generate the theoretical framework. The result of the study was manifested as The CONCORD Model, featuring an integration of the core attributes of efficacy including academic excellence, visionary leadership, streamlined business processes, socio-cultural diversity, dynamic resource development, and community outreach and networking initiatives. The outcome of the study fills a void in existing literature by presenting a sustainable model for organizational leadership, strategic management, and efficient operations for Christian schools. The model can also be extended to serve transformational initiatives in related nonprofit institutions to impart positive social change and a brighter future for communities that value faith-based education and service for the common good.

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