Management Practices of General Secondary Education Principals in Conditions of Uncertainty: the Ukrainian Context

<jats:p>The aim of the study is to research and systematize the management practices of general secondary school principals in Ukraine under conditions of uncertainty, and to identify the key features of a new managerial culture in the field of education. The study applies a quantitative research design based on standardized survey data collected from heads of general secondary education institutions. Empirical information is processed using descriptive statistics and an economic-mathematical modelling framework. Survey responses are operationalized through nominal, ordinal, and binary scales and subsequently transformed into normalized indicators. An integral assessment model is constructed by aggregating partial indices of management style, managerial decisions, and leadership models using a weighted linear approach. The study showed the consolidation of the administrative community around the values of safety, adaptability, trust, partnership, and the adoption of flexible, dialogic management. Priority models of leadership point to a new paradigm of educational management based on human-centeredness, partnership, and ethical responsibility. The profile of a modern educational leader was outlined. The features of effective practices were summarized. Relevant directions for further development of management practices in Ukraine under conditions of uncertainty are identified. The results can contribute to improving management practices, developing professional training programs, and formulating policies aimed at strengthening the resilience and adaptability of educational institutions. The article offers a comprehensive vision of the managerial culture of Ukrainian general secondary education institutions in the context of uncertainty and substantiates conceptual recommendations for its development.</jats:p>