The Role of the Principal as an Educational Leader at the Early Childhood, Primary/Elementary, and Secondary Levels)
Dr. Canute McKenzie JP, Ed.D., M.A., B.A. (Hons.)
About Author
Dr. Canute McKenzie JP, Ed.D., M.A., B.A. (Hons.), is an Adjunct Lecturer in Education and Theology at the Midland Bible Institute, Jamaica. A retired principal and academician with a doctorate in education, his research focuses on stakeholder education. He also serves his community as a Justice of the Peace, pastoral counselor, and senior pastor.
Abstract
This thematic research paper investigated (through literature) the principal’s role as an educational leader in enhancing students’ academic achievement in the 21st century. The literature’s findings revealed that the principal’s role is multifaceted, complex, and diverse; hence, his quintessential role covers a wide range of functionalities. The literature also shows that the principal (one of the main stakeholders in the administration and supervision of education) plays a significant role in the academic success of students and that building and accommodating a healthy school climate generates the potential for parental involvement. Strategies have also been identified that the principal can utilize to boost parental involvement and holistic participation in the life of the school. Disparities between the roles of rural and urban principals, as well as the need for rural principals to get additional training and more resources to empower rural principals holistically, have also been identified.