Navigating uncharted waters: leadership insights from successfully reopened schools amid the COVID-19 pandemic

ABSTRACT

This research delves into the experiences, challenges, and opportunities faced of Indonesian school principals as they grapple with the complex task of reopening schools post-COVID-19 pandemic. It offers insights into the challenges they face, the strategies they employ, and the lessons they learn in this transformative phase of education. Indonesian school leaders are confronted with the simultaneous implementation of a new curriculum, the imperative of safe reopening, and the integration of innovative pedagogical approaches adopted during the pandemic. Through semi-structured interviews and reflexive thematic analysis, five overarching themes emerge: Collaboration and Communication, Adaptation and Innovation, Support and Engagement, Learning from Others, and Resilience and Trust. These themes underscore the indispensable role of school leaders in orchestrating a holistic approach to reestablishing the learning environment. The findings hold significance for policymakers, educators, and education leadership programs, not only within Indonesia but also for educational systems worldwide. As education undergoes a profound transformation, the experiences of Indonesian school leaders offer valuable guidance on adapting, innovating, and fostering resilient educational communities in a post-pandemic world.

KEYWORDS:

• School principals
• school reopening
• education leadership
• Indonesia
• post-pandemic education

Disclosure statement

No potential conflict of interest was reported by the author(s).

Additional information

Funding

This work was supported by the Indonesian Ministry of Education, Culture, Research and Technology under the 2023 National Research Grant [number: 94/LL11/KM/2023].

Notes on contributors

William Sandy

William Sandy is a professional education specialist with rich experience of working in teaching and learning and the education management, particularly in Christian education. Lifelong learner with strong background in English as a Second Language (ESL) teaching and learning, Early to K-12 education as well as tertiary education, curriculum and instructional development, and educational research.