Leadership counts! While it is clear that leadership is regarded as a positive thing, it isn’t really clear what exactly is meant by the terms “leadership” and “leader.” While we understand the terms “leader” and “administrator” are similar, they are often thought of differently. Sometimes leader is called the “good guy,” while the “administrator” is thought of as the “bad guy.” These views usually come about because administration is associated with managerial tasks and technical tasks, and leadership is considered something better. Often, the leader is seen as the “change agent,” while the administrator is the keeper of “the status quo.”
The sources of power are often viewed as: “administrative power is delegated and official” while “leadership power is achieved through prestige and personal influence.” In reality, neither administration nor leadership is better than the other. Only when an individual possesses both is he fully powerful in terms of the model used by Getzels- Guba.
One of the earliest studies on styles of leadership was done by Max Weber. The three styles of leadership are: (1) Traditional: given to someone because people expect leadership from him, not because of the official organization structure; (2) Charismatic: acquired through his own personal qualities of popularity or personal magnetism; and (3) Rational: a leader only through his official position in an organization. He follows rules, regulations, and policies and expects others to do the same.
Other leadership styles include authoritarian, democratic, and laissez-faire. These terms are often replaced with directive leadership, nondirective, and joint determination styles. But virtually “all research agrees that the most effective leadership is that which values participation by group members, stresses both goal achievement and group maintenance, helps to clarify the purposes of the organization, and attempts to bring about greater congruence between organizational goals and individual values.” (Elementary School Administration Theory and Practice, Faber and Shearron, p. 325.)
During my professional studies and my career as an administrator, I believe it has been my leadership practices that have brought me most of my success. I literally have hated the administration and managerial duties that were thrust upon me by the laws, rules and regulations which changed every time a new legislator got a new bill passed. Yes, it was my role as a “change agent” that brought me the most satisfaction. Here at Lawton Academy, I have been able to put aside much of the managerial duties and enjoy my role as a teacher who is able to daily work with students to help them change for the better each and every day. What an exciting vocation I have chosen! I have been blessed with family members who have allowed me such a position by their willingness to take on roles and tasks and duties in ways that allow all of us to be “agents of change.” Yes, we are truly grateful and blessed! Kay