Exploring School Principal Leadership: A Case Study of Upper Secondary School in Northwestern Cambodia

Abstract

This study aims to achieve four main objectives: (1) to identify the characteristics of turnaround leadership among Cambodian upper secondary school principals; (2) to investigate the factors influencing turnaround leadership; (3) to examine principals' roles in implementing turnaround leadership in provincial schools; and (4) to explore actionable recommendations for improving turnaround leadership in low-performing schools. The study uses a qualitative case study approach to investigate the dynamics of turnaround leadership in upper secondary schools across six northwestern provinces of Cambodia: Battambang, Pursat, Pailin, Banteay Meanchey, Oddor Meanchey, and Siem Reap. The data were collected through semi-structured interviews with 21 school principals recognized for their effective turnaround leadership. The findings provide insights into best practices and formulate recommendations to enhance turnaround leadership in Cambodian high schools. The findings provide insights into best practices and formulate recommendations to improve turnaround leadership in Cambodian high schools.