Abstract
Purpose: The purpose of this study was to compare job satisfaction of principals in small and large California comprehensive public high schools. Methodology: Random sampling of 50 large-school principals and 50 small-school principals was conducted with a 90% response rate. Small schools were defined as those schools having an enrollment of 100–700 students. Large high schools were identified as those having an enrollment greater than 2,500 students. The subjects in the study responded to the Minnesota Job Satisfaction Questionnaire (MSQ). The study explored the relationship between the school size and the principal job satisfaction as defined by Frederick Herzberg's motivation/hygiene theory of job satisfaction. Findings: Examination of quantitative and qualitative data from the seated high school principals showed no significant difference between principals of large and small high schools in their job satisfaction. Principals from both large and small high schools indicated the intrinsic job satisfaction factors outscored the extrinsic factors. The subjects presented statistically significantly higher job satisfaction rates than those of normed values of the MSQ. Conclusions: The study data support the conclusion that public high school principals in the state of California in both large and small schools gain their job satisfaction from the work itself rather than extrinsic motivation. Recommendations: Further research is recommended using descriptive studies of more detailed responses of principals to provide clearer comparisons and provide an opportunity for respondents to clarify answers within the MSQ. Open-ended responses allowing for greater explanation of response items may lead to predicting potential successful high school principals.