Enduring presence, evolving paradigm: Presidents' perceptions of the “nativity” model of inner city Catholic education: A national study
Abstract
This study explores one new model of inner city Catholic education. The purpose of this research is to capture the essence of the Nativity school model from the perspective of the president, and gather data regarding the viability of the Nativity model as a means of sustaining the rich legacy of Catholic education in the inner city. The researcher design focused on the following variables: (a) mission, (b) governance, (c) structure, (d) finance model, (e) program, (f) student recruitment and selection. Data was collected using a mixed methodological approach. A survey instrument was sent to each president of the current 41 Nativity schools. The researcher employed purposeful sampling to select 4 presidents for in-depth interviews. The interview protocol focused on the six variables of the research design. Other data was gathered through observation and document analysis that allowed the researcher to confirm what was presented in the surveys and stated in the interviews. The findings suggest the viability of a comprehensive model for providing low cost Catholic education to the poorest in society. The evidence suggests that the model is one effective way for the Church to continue to educate the poor and work at breaking the cycle of poverty. The study concluded with a summary of themes, conclusions regarding the data and recommendations for future research, and for Church leaders as they continue to struggle with the economic issues facing inner city Catholic schools.
Subject Area
Educational administration|Music education
Recommended Citation
Smith, Kevin James, "Enduring presence, evolving paradigm: Presidents' perceptions of the “nativity” model of inner city Catholic education: A national study" (2006). ETD Collection for Fordham University. AAI3210281.
https://research.library.fordham.edu/dissertations/AAI3210281
