Path-Goal Theory: Case Study 6.1

Nancy is concerned about preparing students for success after high school graduation.

Student test scores are comparable with other districts in the state, but many graduates cannot find jobs.

The district has a high school dropout rate of 30%. Of the students that do attend college only 40% finish with a degree. These facts show that the work force is better fit for the majority of the district’s students. College is not the best option for these students. This is not what parents want to hear. When students drop out of college and return home they are not prepared for the local work force.

School administrators and school board members are considering renovations to existing schools, or building a new school. Nancy wants to develop new education model and facility to better prepare students for the work force.

A local university has gifted land to school district to build a new school. The university has gifted the land for the school with the understanding that it will be able to use the building in the evenings and on weekends for classes.

Nancy feels that if she gets the students on her side then the parents will follow. Most students seem indifferent. Only a small percentage of students are on board with the new proposal. Nancy feels that the students are indifferent because they are unaware of the job opportunities that await them following graduation. She believes that creating internships and job shadowing programs will create new interest and enthusiasm.

1. Leadership is about influencing people to reach a common goal. What are the common goals for Nancy, the school board, teachers, and students in this case?

2. What follower characteristics do you think each of the constituent groups exhibits?

3. What leader behaviors (directive, supportive, participative, or achievement- oriented) should Nancy use with each of the constituent groups she is trying to influence?

Producing students that are prepared to be successful in the local work force is the common goal for Nancy. Nancy needs to get all constituents to buy into this same goal. It seems that the 3 constituents may have different goals.