Leadership, values and school community in Latin American Secondary Schools. Perceptions and Challenges

This research deals with the role of principals in Latin-American secondary schools. Becoming a school leader is a slow process which demands a series of management and administration skills, and also a series of personal values which define his/her leadership in the community and promote a suitable environment for learning. In this study, we look into the values they attempt to apply in their work and the challenges they face when building an educational community. Through a cross-case study, we address the reality of seven Latin-American principals. To do so, we have chosen a qualitative approach in which semi-structured interviews and observation are our data-gathering techniques. In the findings, we stress the importance of honesty, justice or courage and cordiality as values which mark his/her management. However, teacher resistance and the lack of family support are key factors in the building of a united community.