Hurricanes, Schools, and the Ethics of Care and Community

Abstract

This narrative study described how professional ethics were reflected in the practices of school leaders supervising community disaster shelters in Central Florida during Hurricane Irma. The study applied two frameworks, Ethic of Community and Ethic of Care, to understand how values shaped these leaders’ experiences. Researchers interviewed principals, plant managers, and food service managers to gain a better understanding of the ways that school leaders applied ethics in responding to the needs of those within their care. This study provides insight into ways that school leaders extend their leadership and care into the community beyond the specific school shareholders.