Transition of Leadership in Catholic Elementary Schools With its Perceived Effect on Catholic Identity

The transition of leadership in Catholic elementary schools in the Brooklyn Diocese of New York with its perceived effect on the Catholic identity in four schools was investigated in this study. The Brooklyn Diocese is the largest urban diocese in the United States. Since Vatican II there has been a steady decline in the number of religious principals. This study used the qualitative method of research. Data collections was done through structured interviews of the lay principals,teachers, and parents. School observations and examining school documents for the purpose of triangulation were also used. Through the responses of the teachers and parents it was found that a smooth transition of leadership had taken place in the four schools. The Catholic identity as described with the consecrated religious principals was continuing with the lay principals