Leadership Styles of School Heads on the Motivation, Job Satisfaction and Job Performance of Teachers

This study examined the impact of school leadership styles on teachers’ motivation, job satisfaction, and job performance, highlighting the crucial role of school heads in fostering a positive educational environment. Using a quantitative descriptive-correlational research design, data were collected through structured surveys from 118 teachers in the Pilar District. The findings revealed that democratic leadership significantly enhanced teacher motivation and job satisfaction by promoting collaboration, open communication, and shared decision-making. Authoritative leadership provided structure and direction but had mixed effects, as it maintained order while sometimes limiting teacher autonomy. In contrast, laissez-faire leadership negatively influenced performance due to a lack of active guidance and involvement. The study found that teachers were primarily motivated by achievement, professional growth, and recognition, yet limited access to career advancement and professional development opportunities hindered their performance. While most teachers were rated “Very Satisfactory,” few reached the “Outstanding” level, emphasizing the need for continuous skill development, structured mentorship, and leadership-driven support. Statistical analysis confirmed weak but positive correlations between structured leadership approaches and teacher engagement, reinforcing the importance of effective leadership in improving motivation and job satisfaction.The research underscores the necessity for school heads to adopt leadership strategies that balance democratic and authoritative approaches while minimizing laissez-faire tendencies. By fostering a supportive work culture, providing professional development, and implementing mentorship programs, school administrators can enhance teacher effectiveness and overall educational outcomes. These findings offer valuable insights for policymakers and educators, guiding leadership training, career growth initiatives, and structured evaluation systems to improve school leadership practices. Ultimately, strengthening school leadership can lead to higher teacher motivation, improved job satisfaction, and enhanced student learning outcomes, contributing to a more dynamic and effective educational system.