Date of Award
Spring 8-1-2025
Document Type
Dissertation
Degree Name
Doctor of Philosophy (PhD)
Department
Educational Leadership
First Advisor
Steve Gruenert
Second Advisor
Terry McDaniel
Third Advisor
Erica Buchanan-Rivera
Abstract
The purpose of this qualitative study was to investigate and gain meaning of the experiences of families with school aged children and why they trust and value Black churches versus the school education system and if there is anything that schools can learn from roles that Black churches play in families’ lives. The research was guided by the following questions: (1) How do Black churches build relationships with families, consistently and effectively engage children, and teach children? (2) How do schools build relationships with families, consistently and effectively engage children, and teach children? (3) Is there anything that schools can learn from Black churches that might support and assist schools with effective training to decrease behavior, close the academic gap, and support social and emotional challenges?Once meeting in person, small talk was used to build rapport. Data were generated into themes from the analysis of responses provided during the interviews. Emerging themes included understanding Black student and family school experience, roles that Black churches play in families’ lives, and the difference between the culture of schools and Black churches. The findings included things that schools could learn from Black churches which were trust, transparency, positive relationship, family centeredness, and cultural understanding. Implications include naming ways schools can learn from Black churches in ways of making an effective and authentic impact to Black students.
Recommended Citation
Smith, Samantha Marie, "Is There Something Schools Can Learn From Black Churches?" (2025). All-Inclusive List of Electronic Theses and Dissertations. 3678.
https://scholars.indianastate.edu/etds/3678