New Horizons in Education

Abstract

Background: The future of secondary school administration in the United States is a bleak one. Fewer individuals are seeking to take on the increasing challenges of the position. This phenomenon is even more pronounced for future female administrators. Traditionally, men have held the majority of administrative positions at the secondary level and maintained a masculine approach to leadership.

Focus of discussion: The focus of this paper lies in exploring the reasons why females are less interested in aspiring to the principalship of secondary schools and how the recruitment of females may change the traditional male model of leadership. Whether it be the added responsibilities of the position, traditional hiring norms, or the traditional family responsibilities held by women; the fact remains that less females are seeking and obtaining administrative roles in the secondary schools. A brief exploration of the differences in management styles of males versus females is also found.

Argument: The more collaborative type of leadership often found in female leaders has become a more desirable method of leadership and learning from the feminist approach to educational leadership will benefit all involved.

Conclusion: In order to utilize the contributions females can make to secondary education, the style of management must be viewed differently. Collaboration and delegation must become an acceptable form of management rather than the current perception of weakness.

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