Culturally responsive leadership in a pandemic context: a case study of three primary schools in a low socio-economic area of New Zealand

Abstract

This paper discusses the results of a case study investigating the COVID-19 pandemic response of three school leaders in regional primary schools in New Zealand. The leadership practices and decisions made by school leaders in crisis situations, particularly in schools with indigenous and minority students, is an ongoing area of interest for researchers. This study seeks to contribute to the literature in this area through the discussion of case study results that reveal that although there were similarities and differences between the leadership practices of school leaders these were influenced by context, technology access and social cohesion. Principals describe the tensions they faced, culturally appropriate responses, caring and adaptive leadership required that was significant in the support of young people within their vulnerable communities.