What does the term "distributed leadership" refer to?

The term "distributed leadership" refers to the practice of sharing leadership responsibilities among various members of the school community. This approach recognizes that effective leadership does not reside solely with a single individual but can be more impactful when it is shared among multiple stakeholders, including teachers, administrators, staff, and even students. By involving a diverse group in the leadership process, schools can leverage a broader range of perspectives, expertise, and skills, which enhances collaboration and improves decision-making.

This concept promotes a more democratic approach to leadership and fosters an environment where all members feel empowered and invested in the school’s mission and goals. The collaborative nature of distributed leadership encourages shared accountability, improves trust among community members, and can lead to greater innovation and responsiveness to the needs of the school.

In contrast to this concept, the other choices describe leadership practices that are more centralized or exclusive, limiting the potential benefits of diverse input and engagement within the school community.