Abstract:
This pilot study developed a climate instrument
which was administered in a sample of high schools in
one board of education. Several tests were conducted i n
order to determine the reliability and internal
consistency of the instrument . The ability of the
instrument to identify the demographic differences of
school and gender was also tested.
The relationship between leadership styles and
an effective use of authority in creating a productive
and rewarding work environment was the f ocus of t his
study. Attitudes to leadership and perceived school
morale were investigated in a demographic study, a
climate survey, as well as a body of related literature.
In light of the empirical research, an attempt was made
to determine the extent to which the authority figure's
behaviour and adopted leadership style contributed to a
positive school climate : one in which t eachers were
motivated to achieve to t he best of their abilities by
way of their commitment and service. The tone of
authority assumed by t he leader not only shapes the mood
of the school environment but ultimately determines the
efficiency and morale of t he teaching staff.
