The Influence of Servant Leadership on Employee Performance in Vocational High Schools: a Sustainability Perspective in Enhancing Educational Performance

Introduction: This research aims to analyze the influence of Servant Leadership on work performance in Vocational High Schools, emphasizing the sustainability of leadership practices. Servant Leadership, which prioritizes the well-being and development of employees, is increasingly gaining attention in the education sector, particularly at the vocational high school level, where leadership quality significantly affects the sustainability of work performance and organizational growth. This study is grounded in the assumption that Servant Leadership not only enhances motivation but also fosters a work environment conducive to long-term performance improvement and sustainability. Methods: This study employs a quantitative approach using survey methods. Data were collected through questionnaires distributed to employees at several Vocational High Schools in East Java. The sample was selected using purposive sampling, consisting of 159 school principal respondents from a population of 2,161. The questionnaire utilized a 4-point Likert scale. Data analysis was conducted using SEM PLS 4.0 to examine the relationship between Servant Leadership and work performance. Results: The results indicate a significant positive influence of Servant Leadership on work performance in Vocational High Schools in East Java. Employees led by principals who embody Servant Leadership principles demonstrate higher levels of performance, which contributes to a sustainable work environment. Additionally, Persuasive mapping (SL4) and Emotional healing (SL2) are key dimensions of Servant Leadership, with the highest impact on fostering sustainable work performance. In terms of work performance, Work attitude (WP6) and Compliance with policies and procedures (WP8) show the strongest loading factor values, indicating their critical role in measuring and sustaining long-term work performance. Novelty: This research contributes to the understanding of educational leadership in Indonesia, particularly within the context of Vocational High Schools. The findings expand the limited literature on the relationship between Servant Leadership and work performance, particularly with an emphasis on sustainability in the educational sector. Furthermore, this study provides valuable insights for education policymakers, suggesting that leadership strategies rooted in Servant Leadership principles can promote both effective work performance and sustainable practices in educational institutions. Thus, this research offers empirical evidence of the significance of Servant Leadership as a strategy to improve work performance and ensure the sustainability of educational quality in schools.