Abstract
Purpose. The purpose of this study was to identify and describe the organizational management practices and strategies that public administrators in selected school districts have used to address the California High School Exit Exam (CAHSEE). Theoretical framework. There were two theories used to operationalize this study: Systems Theory and Organizational Change Theory. Systems Theory provided a framework for the integration of theory on input, process, and output. The use of Organizational Change Theory provided clear direction of the connection between public policy, action, and change. Methodology. The methodology for this study employed primary data gathered from 13 superintendents of school districts in Riverside County. The study was exploratory, as well as descriptive, containing in-depth interviews compiled of six interview questions. Significant findings . There were six significant findings: (1) School districts in Riverside County have designed day programs, so no additional impact is made to the budget; (2) Students are being encouraged by counselors and administration to attend classes designed to provide CAHSEE assistance; (3) Superintendents are implementing classes that teach to the test by focusing on English/language arts and mathematics; (4) It is difficult to recruit teachers trained to instruct CAHSEE designated subjects; (5) The teachers and administrators within Riverside County school districts feel that it is the responsibility of all involved to assist students pass the CAHSEE; and (6) Identifying the organizational management strategies that are most influential for the CAHSEE is something that has not been done within this county. Conclusion and recommendations. This study was intended to provide a foundation for organizational management strategies that are being implemented to adhere to the CAHSEE. The following recommendations are made: (1) managers must be proactive with the organizational management strategies implemented to adhere to policy, (2) data obtained from this research should be reviewed by district leaders in Riverside County as a guide for future practices to assist students, (3) other superintendents outside of Riverside County school districts should use the data obtained from this study to assist with the development of strategies that can assist them to meet state policy requirements.