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Explaining the Nexus between Leadership and School Effectiveness in Jamaican Secondary Schools: A Focus on the Role of the Middle Manager
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Thesis/Dissertation
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2024-04
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Educational Leadership
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https://doi.org/10.34944/bgj9-sm34
Abstract
School leadership plays a critical role in shaping educational outcomes, mainly through the efforts of middle managers who bridge the gap between administration and classroom instruction. This study explores the collaborative dynamics and decision-making processes of middle managers in secondary schools across Jamaica. Using a qualitative research design, data were collected from 16 middle managers (grade coordinators and heads of departments) across eight secondary schools—selected based on their performance classification by the National Education Inspectorate (NEI) and their rural or urban status.
The study investigates middle managers’ perceptions of leadership, their role in fostering school effectiveness, and the challenges they face in balancing administrative expectations with instructional leadership. Findings suggest that (a) middle managers serve as critical intermediaries in school leadership, influencing both policy implementation and teacher development; (b) their leadership effectiveness is shaped by school performance levels, institutional culture, and available resources; (c) middle managers in high-performing schools report greater autonomy and professional development opportunities, while those in low-performing schools struggle with systemic constraints and limited support, and 4) the ability of middle managers to drive positive change is influenced by their collaborative practices, decision-making authority, and the leadership structures within their schools.
These findings highlight the need for targeted professional development, stronger support systems, and policies that empower middle managers to enhance instructional leadership. The study contributes to the growing body of literature on educational leadership by providing insights into the experiences of middle managers and their role in improving school performance in diverse educational contexts.
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