Congratulations to Anibal Soler Jr. who on Thursday, October 16, 2025, successfully defended his dissertation proposal.
The title of Anibal’s study is "THE ROLE OF SCHOOL SUPERINTENDENTS IN IMPROVING GRADUATION RATES IN LARGE NEW YORK SCHOOL DISTRICTS IN RESPONSE TO THE BLUE RIBBON COMMISSION."
Overview of Problem: Recognizing the inadequacies of traditional graduation measures, the New York State Education Department launched the Blue Ribbon Commission in 2022 to reassess and redesign graduation requirements, shifting towards more equitable, flexible, and competency-based standards (NYSED, 2022). The Commission's findings promise significant implications for educational policy and leadership, placing superintendents at the forefront of implementing innovative graduation standards.
Research Purpose: The central purpose of this study is to explore how superintendents conceptualize, design, and implement dropout prevention and credit recovery strategies in alignment with or in response to the NY Inspires graduation reform plan. This study aims to explore and identify the pivotal role that school superintendents play in addressing the dropout crisis within their respective districts.
Research Design: By employing a qualitative approach centered on semi-structured interviews and document analysis, this study aims to surface nuanced understandings of superintendent leadership practices within complex policy contexts.
Sample: Two primary forms of data will be collected: semi-structured interviews and document analysis. These sources will provide a rich, triangulated understanding of how superintendents interpret and respond to the Blue Ribbon Commission’s recommendations through the NY Inspires framework.
Data Collection: This study's primary data collection methods will include semi-structured interviews with superintendents and artifact analysis. These methods will allow for a rich, in-depth understanding of how school districts are responding to recommendations from the Blue Ribbon Commission and the strategies reflected in their district plans.
Dissertation Committee Chair:
Dr. Kenneth Mitchell
Dissertation Committee Members:
Dr. Joanne Marien
Dr. Betty A. Rosa
Take Your Career to the Next Level
Elevate your leadership skills, deepen your understanding of critical and contemporary education issues, and learn to help solve the current challenges in P-20 education.
Learn to Inspire Change
The Doctoral Program in Educational Leadership from Manhattanville, offered in partnership with Putnam Northern Westchester BOCES, utilizes a forward-thinking approach to educational leadership that is ideal for practicing and aspiring leaders in any educational context. It is designed to support the goals of educational professionals who seek to develop their leadership skills for career advancement or current job enhancement.
