Examining Stakeholder Perceptions Concerning the Future of a Catholic School

Abstract

This study, using a practical action research design, examined the future of St. Mary School, a Catholic elementary school in southern Kentucky. A survey was conducted using a questionnaire consisting of 19 close-ended items and one open-ended item in order to elicit the attitudes and perceptions of the stakeholders (educational professionals, parents, and parishioners) with respect to restoring the facilities, rebuilding enrollment, and re-establishing fiscal balance. The outcome of the research was the formulation of an action plan that ideally will be implemented by the school and further evaluated.