The relationship between school principals and teachers servant leadership

Abstract

The theory of servant leadership is one of the recognized modern approaches to leadership phenomenon, but more empirical evidence is needed to develop this concept further. Little research of servant leadership is done in the research field of educational leadership in various contexts. In this paper the analysis is made, establishing the connection between the school principals‘ and teachers‘ servant leadership in Lithuanian educational context. The literature analysis reveals, that there is an interaction between school principals‘ and teachers‘ servant leadership. The model of Van Dierendonck and Nuijten (2011) was taken as a basis for research. The quantitative empirical research was conducted, which involved participation of heads of schools, teachers and pupils in the survey (N= 889). Statistical factor analysis and regression analysis were made. The results of the analysis revealed that servant leadership construct in Lithuanian schools differs from Van Dierendonck and Nuijten (2011) theoretical model. New factor of teachers servant leadership construct – development/coaching - was added. Keywords: School, teachers, leadership.