Developing the Professional Capacity of Teachers with Alternative Certifications: An Exploration of Principals’ Lived Experiences
Document Type
Dissertation
Degree Name
Doctor of Education (Ed.D)
Department
Educational Administration
Date of Award
Spring 5-1-2026
Abstract
The purpose of this narrative inquiry study was to explore the lived experiences of principals as they build the professional capacity of alternative certified teachers (ACTs) through evaluation, support, and leadership practices. Grounded in Path–Goal Theory, the study examined how principals use leadership behaviors—directive, supportive, participatory, and achievement-oriented—to shape the development and retention of teachers who enter the profession through alternative certification pathways. The literature review highlighted persistent teacher shortages; the uneven preparation of ACTs; and the critical influence of principal leadership, mentoring, induction, and school climate on teacher effectiveness and longevity. Additionally, the review synthesized research on teacher evaluation systems, particularly the Texas Teacher Evaluation and Support System (T-TESS), and emphasized their importance in guiding instructional growth. This study employed a qualitative narrative inquiry design to capture principals’ perceptions, stories, and reflections regarding the procedures and evidence they use in evaluating ACTs. Data were collected through semi-structured interviews that allowed participants to describe their approaches to assessing teacher performance across T-TESS domains, their preparation for end-of-year conferences, and how instructional data inform goal-setting and professional development. Through these narratives, the researcher sought to illuminate how principals interpret their roles as instructional leaders and how their practices support the growth, confidence, and retention of ACTs in Texas public schools.
Advisor
Melissa Arrambide
Subject Categories
Education | Educational Leadership
Recommended Citation
Graham, Tellauance L., "Developing the Professional Capacity of Teachers with Alternative Certifications: An Exploration of Principals’ Lived Experiences" (2026). Electronic Theses & Dissertations. 1357.
https://lair.etamu.edu/etd/1357
