the effects of contextual change (removal from the teachers' federation) on the culture of a small group of secondary school administrators was studied qualitatively, by a participant observer, using interviews, observations, and a survey. the participants included seven principals, (six males and one female) and eleven vice-principals, (seven males and four females). changes in the group culture are noted in areas such as: sense of purpose, sense of community, trust, decision making, empowerment and recognition. the changes in culture impaired the group’s ability to collaborate, and caused feelings of anger, frustration, isolation and an increased interest in retirement.