Journal of Social Work and Science Education
Vol. 8 No. 1 (2027): Forthcoming Issue

Transformation of Principal’s Leadership in Building Teacher’s Motivation and Performance

Muhamad Sofiul Fuad (Universitas PGRI Palembang, South Sumatra, Indonesia)
Tri Widayatsih (Universitas PGRI Palembang, South Sumatra, Indonesia)
Mulyadi Mulyadi (Universitas PGRI Palembang, South Sumatra, Indonesia)



Article Info

Publish Date
13 Jul 2026

Abstract

This study aims to: (1) describe the implementation of the four dimensions of the principal's transformational leadership (idealized influence, inspirational motivation, intellectual stimulation, and individualized consideration) at SDN 10 Muara Sugihan; (2) analyze the principal's strategies in building and sustaining teacher work motivation through a transformational approach; and (3) explore the implications of these leadership practices on improving teachers' performance in the learning process. Employing a qualitative case study design, data were collected through in-depth interviews, participatory observation, and documentation from purposively selected informants, including the principal, five teachers, a school supervisor, and administrative staff. Analysis followed the interactive model of Miles, Huberman, and Saldaña, with validity ensured through triangulation and member checking. The principal demonstrated transformational leadership through concrete role modeling, contextual vision communication, and consistent appreciation of teacher performance. Motivation-building strategies included creating a humanistic organizational climate, strengthening teachers' sense of belonging, and employing emotionally supportive approaches. These practices tangibly improved teacher performance in lesson planning, teaching creativity, and professional discipline. This study uniquely positions work motivation as a key mediating mechanism linking transformational leadership to teacher performance in a rural Indonesian elementary context. Findings emphasize that principals must adopt humanizing, emotionally supportive approaches alongside structural strategies to sustain teacher motivation effectively. This research contributes empirical evidence that transformational leadership, when enacted through relational and motivational dimensions, significantly enhances teacher professionalism, offering actionable insights for school leaders in similar underserved settings.

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Journal Info

Abbrev

jswse

Publisher

Subject

Religion Economics, Econometrics & Finance Education Environmental Science Languange, Linguistic, Communication & Media

Description

The Journal of Social Work and Science Education (JSWSE) is firmly established as an authoritative voice in the world of social work and science education with E-ISSN: 2723-6919 and P-ISSN 2746-0827. JSWSE publishes scholarly papers that focus on the social science, teaching and learning, science in ...