The Principal's Role in School Restructuring and Reform: An Examination of Self-Perceived Leadership Styles

Abstract

Research and literature has suggested that the school leader be one who empowers others, encourages creativity and flexibility, promotes collaborative planning and shared decision-making in an effort to develop trust throughout the school setting, and utilizes these qualities as a catalyst for successful school resturcturing and reform. A study of the leadership styles of school principals in the Detroit metropolitan area of Wayne County, Michigan was conducted to determine the extent to which principals are applying these recommended styles of leadership for restructurning schools to serve students in the 21 st century. The article includes an examination of responses received from school principals as they relate to leadership training and school reform issues. Recommendations for development and improvement of leadership preparation and professional development programs are presented.