Author

James Ian L. Lumbab*
Cebu Technological University-Main Campus, Cebu City, Cebu, Philippines

Abstract

This study assessed the leadership styles of public elementary school heads and the level of teachers’ job satisfaction at Tabuelan Central Elementary School during the School Year 2025-2026 as a basis for developing an action plan to enhance teacher satisfaction through effective leadership practices. A descriptive-correlational research design was employed, with thirty-four (34) teachers serving as respondents. Data were gathered using a modified questionnaire adapted from the Multifactor Leadership Questionnaire (MLQ) and the Job Satisfaction Survey (JSS). Statistical tools used included frequency and percentage, weighted mean, standard deviation, and Pearson Product-Moment Correlation Coefficient. Findings revealed that school heads always demonstrated transformational and transactional leadership styles, while passive/avoidant leadership behaviors were observed rarely. Teachers reported high to very high levels of job satisfaction, particularly in supervision, promotion, pay, and fringe benefits. The results further showed a significant relationship between school leadership styles and teachers’ job satisfaction, indicating that effective leadership positively influences teacher motivation and workplace satisfaction. Based on the findings, an action plan was developed focusing on strengthening instructional leadership, enhancing communication and feedback mechanisms, improving recognition systems, and streamlining school procedures. The study concludes that effective school leadership plays a vital role in promoting teacher job satisfaction and sustaining a positive and productive school environment.

Keywords: Administration and supervision, leadership styles, teacher job satisfaction, descriptive-correlation, action plan, Tabuelan, Cebu, Philippines.

*Corresponding author/ Email: jamesian.lumbab@deped.gov.ph
DOI: http://doi.org/10.69651/PIJHSS0502994

Recommended citation:
Lumbab, J. I. L. (2026). The nexus of leadership styles and teacher job satisfaction: Insights from public elementary schools. Pantao (The International Journal of the Humanities and Social Sciences) 5 (2), 1518-1535. http://doi.org/10.69651/PIJHSS0502994

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