Upward supportive communication for school principals

Upward supportive communication, which occurs when staff members offer or express support to their principals, is a phenomenon that has not been given much attention in terms of empirical research. It has been well established that downward supportive communication, typified by principals and other school leaders giving support to staff members, is important to teacher morale and school climate. However, principals need support in order to maintain their own morale and sense of connection with their schools. This article presents the results of recent research into upward supportive communication in government, Catholic systemic and independent schools. The study found consistently lower levels of upward supportive communication compared to other forms (downward and horizontal supportive communication). However, interview data suggest a number of ways in which teachers and other staff members can provide support to the principal.