In this study, the researcher examines the decision-making approaches used by Wisconsin district administrators when addressing COVID-19 pandemic-related school closures. The study results showed that Wisconsin district administrators’ decision approaches were predominantly classical and incremental in nature; and high in satisficing, mixed-scanning, and shared decision-making. The results also revealed that all Wisconsin district administrators followed state mandates to close the schools but relied heavily on input from stakeholders before making any mitigation decisions or choosing any learning delivery format. The primary factors taken into consideration by district administrators to decide on virtual or in-person learning included guidance from health authorities, the number of infection cases, student learning, availability of technology, and community dynamics. District administrators facing epidemic health emergencies need to seek all stakeholders’ input on mitigation measures, but student learning should be the primary driver behind closing schools or going back to in person learning.

Author: Hassan Elannani

Published in: Ireland International Conference on Education (IICE-2023)

• Date of Conference: 11-13 April 2023
• DOI: 10.20533/IICE.2023.0040
• ISBN: 978-1-913572-51-8
• Conference Location: Dún Laoghaire, Ireland