Leadership in My School

In my school, I notice many leadership theories in practice. I see Transformational Leadership, which is about inspiring and motivating (Cahyono et al., 2020). In my school setting, our principal applies this style when sharing a vision for the school's future to get everyone onboard, including teachers and students. I also see Transactional Leadership, which operates basically on a system of rewards and penalties (Quinn, 2023). Our school rewards teachers with bonuses for achieving high student test scores and penalizes them for underperformance, so this is indicative of this leadership style in action.

However, the leadership theory that I think would apply the most benefit would be servant leadership, because this is the one that really provides a one-on-one focus, and when others benefit from this they can pass it on and pay it forward. I think the best way to spread leadership is through this approach, because it helps individuals to become the best possible version of themselves. They then become leaders and do the same for others. It is a self-reinforcing approach that could be good for schools and communities. For a school, it is a good way for students to feel supported. In the community, it is a good way to set the example for others.

That said, it is helpful to remember that when considering which leadership style is best for ones school, it often depends on the specific needs and context of the institution. Not every school is going to be the same, even from one year to the next sometimes. Sometimes a school may benefit from a Transformational Leadership approach, with its emphasis on inspiration and motivation, which has been needed in my school in the past when trying to make a big change in the school culture. But I still like Servant Leadership, with its nurturing approach, as it helps everyone to feel valued and supported.

References

Cahyono, Y., Novitasari, D., Sihotang, M., Aman, M., Fahlevi, M., Nadeak, M., ... & Purwanto,

A. (2020). The effect of transformational leadership dimensions on job satisfaction and organizational commitment: case studies in private university Lecturers.Solid State Technology,63(1s), 158-184.

Quinn, H. (2023). What is transactional leadership and how can I use it?: Transactional

leadership may be an unpopular tool in a nursing manager's box, but it can help achieve short-term goals and provide clear direction and structure.Nursing Management-UK,30(3).