The Leadership of Management Teams: A Fundamental Pillar in Building An Educational Culture for Coexistence and Participation

Background/purpose. Educational leadership plays a fundamental role in promoting a democratic school culture that fosters participation, coexistence, and inclusion. However, the development of such a culture largely depends on how leadership teams perform their roles and the leadership styles they adopt. This study aims to explore the perceptions of leadership teams and teachers regarding educational leadership and its influence on school coexistence. Materials/methods. The study was conducted in 75 educational centres in Aragón (Spain) using a mixed-methods approach. Data were collected from both teachers and school leaders through a questionnaire and a discussion group. The analysis focused on the functions, skills, and beliefs that shape educational leadership practices. Results. The findings reveal a generally positive perception of educational leadership, especially regarding its role in creating a favourable organisational climate and promoting constructive interpersonal relationships. Competencies such as communication, conflict resolution, and teamwork emerged as essential to effective leadership. Additionally, the importance of collegial and participatory leadership practices was emphasised. Conclusion. The study concludes that distributed leadership dynamics make a significant contribution to fostering inclusive and democratic school environments. This form of leadership not only enhances coexistence but also promotes the overall well-being of the educational community by encouraging the active engagement of all stakeholders in decision-making processes.