Applying Strategic Leadership in Educational Contexts: A Professional Perspective

Abstract

This chapter provides a professional perspective of the relevance and necessity of strategic leadership in PK-12 settings. As school systems continue to evolve, it will be paramount that school leaders are strategic in the way they lead. Specifically, school leaders must be deliberate and thoughtful in the decisions they make, in order to ensure maximum success. This has become even more important in a high-stakes environment in which student scores and organizational efficiency is often linked to job performance. This type of leadership employs a multifaceted approach, which requires leading through a variety of contexts, as well as recognizing and leveraging the ability to effectively collaborate and make intentional decisions that are evidenced-based. If the aforementioned traits are balanced and appropriately executed, educational leaders will be well positioned to experience significant and positive outcomes.