Abstract
Purpose. The study had two purposes. The first was to determine to what degree selected elementary principals, when faced with an ethical dilemma at work, use and find helpful the components of a framework for ethical reasoning which includes the ethic of justice, care, critique, and profession. The second was to determine to what degree they rely on other sources to help them make fair and right decisions for all involved. Methodology. Twenty elementary principals from ten districts in Southern California comprised the study sample. This descriptive study used both a survey and face-to-face interview guide developed by the researcher. The response rate for both instruments was 100 percent. The data generated from the surveys and interviews were analyzed using descriptive statistics and qualitative methods. Findings. Elementary principals who participated in the study use the ethics of justice, care, critique, and profession as lenses to focus on what is in the best interests of their students and staff when they make decisions. Principals did not always refer to the ethics by name, but demonstrated their understanding and use of each ethic during interviews. Conclusions. The three conclusions based on the findings in this study were that elementary principals who use an ethical reasoning framework which includes the ethics of justice, care, critique, and profession: (1) make decisions that are fair and right for all involved; (2) present a solid rationale for their decisions when challenged by internal and external stakeholders; (3) rely on a variety of other resources as well for guidance and advice including principal colleagues, district office administrators, their superintendent, laws, and policies to help them formulate ethical decisions. Recommendations for future research. Replicate this study with a larger sample of elementary principals from districts in Northern and Southern California to determine if the findings and conclusions are the same as those of this study. Implications for action. Provide opportunities for educational leaders to learn about the importance and application of ethical reasoning frameworks at work.