Theses and Dissertations from DePaul University

Date of Award

Spring 2026

Degree Type

Dissertation

Degree Name

Doctor of Philosophy (PhD)

College

College of Education

First Advisor

Donna Foiles-Kiel

Abstract

The International Baccalaureate (IB) has expanded rapidly into schools serving low socioeconomic status (SES) communities in the United States as part of broader efforts to increase access to rigorous, internationally recognized academic programming. While research has documented positive student outcomes associated with IB participation, less is known about the leadership conditions that support the long-term sustainability of IB programs in under resourced contexts. This quantitative, cross-sectional study examines IB leaders’ perceptions of implementation and sustainability challenges in low-SES school settings, the relationship between those challenges and perceived leadership effectiveness and program outcomes, and the adaptive strategies leaders identify as essential for sustaining high-quality IB programs. Using survey data from IB coordinators, IB teacher leaders, and school heads working in IB World Schools serving low-SES communities, the study employs descriptive statistics and multiple regression analyses to explore patterns and predictive relationships among key variables. Findings are intended to inform IB leadership practice, district support structures, and policy decisions related to equity-driven program expansion.

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