DISTRICT OFFICE LEADERS SUPPORTING OVERLOADED URBAN HIGH SCHOOL PRINCIPALS: A QUALITATIVE MULTIPLE CASE STUDY

Abstract

This qualitative multiple case study explores how district leaders in Oklahoma City Public Schools support urban high school principals facing increased stress from growing job demands. Principals are expected to lead instruction while managing complex responsibilities, from compliance and staffing to student behavior and mental health concerns. The study investigates which stressors are most pressing and how district office leaders can better support principals in their instructional leadership roles. Data included surveys from seven high school principals and two district office leaders, plus reflective journals and semi-structured interviews with four selected principals. This research seeks to identify actionable strategies that enhance principal effectiveness and to reduce burnout. The researcher aims to guide district leaders in developing more targeted systems of support that promote stability and improve school outcomes. In light of rising turnover and post-pandemic challenges, this study emphasizes the need for responsive district leadership that prioritizes sustainable change over top-down mandates. Keywords: urban school district-level support, principal stress, principal workload, instructional leadership, principal burnout