Conceptualizing the Mediating Role of Teachers’ Innovative  Leadership in PTL and TCPD

Teachers play an irreplaceable role in schools, driving the growth of adolescents through creativity, knowledge, and perseverance, which is crucial for their future success. However, this responsibility often requires teachers to continuously adapt to developmental changes and pursue personal growth. This study, set against the backdrop of demonstrative high schools in China, explores how principals' transformational leadership (PTL) creates an environment that fosters teachers' innovative leadership. Such innovative leadership not only supports teachers' continuous professional development (TCPD) but is also essential for maintaining high levels of educational excellence and promoting school progress. Given the complexity of TCPD, this study introduces a conceptual framework that combines elements of transformational and innovative leadership, aiming to provide valuable insights for enhancing TCPD practices. This model not only underscores the importance of leadership in education but also offers practical references for policymakers and school administrators, laying the groundwork for further empirical exploration.