Abstract
Purpose. The purpose of this case study was to describe the elements of 360-degree or multirater feedback that were perceived by selected principals and superintendents to enhance the performance of school principals. Methodology. This qualitative case study used descriptive research. Individual oral interviews were conducted with five superintendents and twenty (K–12) principals purposely selected from five California unified school districts using 360-degree or multirater performance feedback with site principals. The study's six research questions guided the development of a questionnaire used during the individual oral interview process. Based on the oral interview data, combined with selected archival data, the researcher discovered key themes and patterns which led to six major findings. Findings. Based on the perceptions of principals and superintendents in the study, (1) 360-degree or multirater performance feedback enhanced the leadership roles of principals to a greater degree than single-rater performance feedback; (2) principals valued honest, specific, meaningful, and constructive feedback when it was designed to help them improve; (3) the multirater performance feedback process could be hurtful if not carefully implemented; (4) 360-degree or multirater performance feedback would have greater potential for acceptance and success if principals were allowed time to discuss and understand the process prior to implementation; (5) principals valued time for dialogue and mentoring with their superintendents; and (6) 360-degree or multirater performance feedback was more effective when used to foster professional growth, rather than when used as a summative evaluation. Conclusions and recommendations. 360-degree or multirater performance feedback is a valuable tool for providing principals with data about their leadership strengths and weaknesses. When mentored by supportive superintendents, principals learn to reflect upon their leadership behaviors and develop action plans for continuous improvement based on feedback from multiple shareholders.