One of the most effective questions that an interviewer could ask a candidate for an educational leadership position is:

"What is your leadership philosophy and how have you put it into practice?"

This question can reveal a candidate's approach to leadership, their values, and their ability to translate their philosophy into actionable steps. It allows candidates to showcase their leadership style and experience, providing insights into their ability to motivate and lead teams, communicate effectively, and make sound decisions.

According to research conducted by the American Association of School Administrators (AASA), educational leadership candidates who can articulate their leadership philosophy and demonstrate how they apply it in practice are more likely to be successful in their roles. Furthermore, the ability to articulate a clear and compelling leadership philosophy is considered a crucial aspect of effective leadership in education (Hallinger & Heck, 1998).

References:

Hallinger, P., & Heck, R. H. (1998). Exploring the principal's contribution to school effectiveness: 1980-1995. School effectiveness and school improvement, 9(2), 157-191.

American Association of School Administrators (2018). The Educational Leadership Imperative: Leading for Learning and Equity in Schools. Retrieved from https://www.aasa.org/uploadedFiles/Publications/Educational_Leaders...