This multiple case study examined the role of four US state-recognized high-quality principals in the implementation of change initiatives in their Midwestern schools. Participants were selected based on nomination by the state department of education and district superintendents. The research question guiding the study was: how do principals promote positive school culture to support the implementation of change initiatives? Specifically, the study explored how principals engage staff to create a positive learning environment and how their influence on organizational culture changes classroom practice. Organizational culture and change theories served as the lenses for analysis. Three salient leadership practices of successful principals emerged during data analysis: great principals manage the implementation of multiple initiatives by (1) empowering teachers by cultivating trust, (2) knowing their staff well, and (3) engaging in explicit and purposeful communication.

Last, but not least, I want to acknowledge the support and encouragement I received from my Indonesian friends in Iowa City and surrounding areas. Their friendship (and Indonesian cooking) helped fuel me through years of graduate school. They are truly my family away from home.

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