Theses and Dissertations Collection

Although building and district administrators were key to the success of a professional-technical education (PTE) program, few quantitative studies had been conducted that specifically addressed administrator perspectives of PTE magnet programs. Magnet programs were becoming more prevalent in the state and country, but were limited in their number as compared to traditional PTE programs. As magnet programs continued to increase in popularity within the United States, the need for more in depth studies was evident. Additionally, magnet programs in Idaho had taken on a new light with the Idaho legislature implementing new guidelines and increased PTE funding within Idaho, school districts had begun to utilize magnet facilities to educate students in a whole new way (Gelber, 2008).

The purpose of this study was to describe the perceptions secondary administrators held of PTE programs, instructors and students within a magnet program. Because of the complexity of a PTE magnet program, it could be assumed these types of programs may be perceived by administrators to be ineffective (Kidwai, 2011). This study was designed to analyze the perspectives administrators had of PTE magnet programs within the Meridian School District. The study results showed administrators within the Meridian School District did believe these programs provide students with opportunities to be successful in any career they choose. Additionally, PTE magnet programs were perceived to be rigorous and beneficial for all students.