Want a More Effective School? Better Start with the Culture

Abstract

ABSTRACT In this article, the relationships between the nature of the professional leadership culture and student learning are examined according to the professionals’ perceptions. The qualitative case study examined the perceptions of school-level professionals in one elementary school with a reputation for strong results in student learning, regarding the nature of the professional leadership culture and its relationship to student learning. Professional leadership culture is defined by this author as shared assumptions, practices, beliefs and values concerning leadership activities that are understood and practiced among school professionals. E. H. Schein’s (2010) organizational culture and leadership model provided the conceptual framework for the study. The three most common representations of the professional leadership culture included pervasive collaboration among professionals, a culture of trust, and a supportive environment. This study prompts some reflection for theory-building on the connection between the concept of leadership and its role in improving school culture. Policy implications of the study are discussed as they relate to human resources issues and their connection to culture and leadership, priorities regarding personnel supervision and evaluation, standards for a respectful workplace, the institutionalization of trust, open communication, supportive relationships, collaboration, and the anticipation and management of workplace conflict.