The Analysis of Democratic Leadership and Work Ethic on Teacher Performance in Catholic Middle Schools, Karo Regency

Teacher performance plays a critical role in improving educational quality. This study analyzes the influence of democratic leadership by school principals, management of work stress, and work ethic on teacher performance in Catholic junior high schools in Karo Regency. Employing a quantitative approach, data were analyzed using regression and path analysis to examine direct and indirect relationships among the variables. The results indicate that democratic leadership has both a direct positive effect on teacher performance (path coefficient = 0.246) and an indirect effect through work ethic. Democratic leadership also positively influences work ethic (coefficient = 0.213), while work stress management has an even stronger effect on work ethic (coefficient = 0.266). Among all variables, work ethic exerts the strongest influence on teacher performance (coefficient = 0.515), making it the most dominant factor. These findings suggest that while effective leadership and stress management contribute to better teacher outcomes, strengthening teachers’ work ethic is key to achieving optimal performance. School management should therefore prioritize fostering a positive work culture and supportive environment to enhance both work ethic and performance.