An evaluation of the leadership of principals by educators

M.Ed.This research centres around the perceptions held by teachers about the various facets of strategic leadership among school principals. This aspect must be seen within the broader context of educational transformation in South Africa. Despite the dramatic changes in which schools are managed and the transformation of the national and provincial departments of education into a democratic, equitable and comprehensive national education system, it is evident that educators do not all perceive the leadership of their principals in the same way. Due to the many and complex changes taking place in our schools today, principals should be committed practitioners who are able to lead and manage at the same time. School management should be participatory, collegial and committed to teacher - and pupil. It also entails active involvement in the activities of the school (Dzvimbo, 1996: 23). The principal must be encouraged to adopt a system of management which will give the educators the opportunity to influence the decision making process. Educators must be made to feel part of the management in order to increase their sense of belonging and minimise apathy. The development of a management style which will create an open school climate and team spirit could assist educators in developing positive perceptions of the principal