Transformational Leadership In Schools

Leadership plays a vital role in the success of the school systems and the development of society. As society becomes more complex, so does the leadership that is required to govern it (Balyer, 2012 cited Fullan, 2001). Leadership in its sophistication is said to be transformational. As such, transformational leadership has been of growing interest to many scholars and theorists over the years. The focus of transformational leadership in the school system has resulted in the development of many turn-around schools, as well as, increased leadership performances of school principals. In developing a theoretical framework of transformational leadership the study focuses on Leithwood and Jantzi (1994) “Effects of transformational leadership on

Bass (1985) asserted that transformational leaders use inspiration to communicate organizational vision and establish a strong school culture. It is based on this assertion that this theory was selected, as in communicating their vision, a transformational leader (principal) allows teachers and students to become informed about the significance of their efforts in accomplishing school goals; hence resulting in an underperforming school being reclassified as a turnaround school. In addition, this theory is selected based on the premises that a principal as a transformational leader has the potential to develop a personal rapport with their followers (Bass & Avolio, 1993); and with the establishment of relationships built on inspiration and personal attention, it will foster an atmosphere of intellectual stimulation which creates a turnaround school. The culture of a school and structures within the school which foster shared decision making are essential dimensions of transformational leadership. These are the dimensions that are uniquely aligned to the morale and disposition of the members of a school (Schein 1985) Transformational leaders will utilize practices that align with the vision, goals, and expectations that also give individual consideration to school members with the purpose of enacting change within the organization; hence, bringing about a turnaround school.

It has been noted that the role of the principal plays a pivotal part in the development of the school and its constituents. As such a study was formulated which theorizes that transformational leadership styles if practiced by principals can lead to the positive development of school, especially the upgraded high schools. As such, the purpose of the research is to investigate whether transformational leadership style is an effective approach to moving underperforming schools to turnaround schools. In addition, to determine which of the characteristics of a transformational leader is more effective in achieving a turnaround school.

Objectives

This study seeks to answer these questions:

1. How transformational leadership does impacts the performances of turn- around schools?

2. What areas of school development would transformational leadership be considered worthwhile?

3. What are the effective characteristics of a transformational leader?

4. What are some implications of the use of transformational leadership style in under-performing school?

Significance of the