The Manifestation of Spirituality in Special Education Leaders

Abstract

The challenges of special education leadership require both inspiration and capacity. This qualitative study of a purposeful sample of members of a Midwestern special education professional organization explores how leaders in special education experience spirituality in their work—creating meaning, leading/supporting others, and coping with workplace demands. In response to internal and external struggles, analysis of interviews and journal entries shows spiritually inclined special education leaders cultivate a sense of gratitude, which flows into a cycle with trust. This choice leads to fulfilled feelings from enacting their values, rich collaboration, and success with integrating work into a balanced life. These findings suggest that prospective and current special education leaders can benefit from engaging in a spiritual perspective toward work.