Understanding teacher leadership: Development and testing of the survey of teacher leadership

Teacher leadership (TL) has been identified as key component of effective schools. While research has grown in this area, there is a dearth of empirically and theoretically supported measures for understanding TL. This study examines the validity and reliability of the Survey of Teacher Leadership (STL). The STL builds on previous theory and research in TL by creating an assessment of teacher TL practices and their associated self-efficacy in these practices. In addition to more established domains of TL, the STL also examines teachers’ leadership practices and self-efficacy in diversity and equity. The STL was sent to all non-charter public school teachers in the U.S. state of Nevada. Over 1200 teachers responded and their data provided a firm empirical foundation for examining the psychometric qualities of the STL. Evidence indicates a five-factor structure with acceptable psychometric qualities.