Authors: Nadiya Batyrbaeva, Natalya Zavertunova, Ainagul Malmasov

DOI: 10.62670/2308-7668.2025.52.2.006

Source: Issue: vol. 52 No. 2: 15 June 2025

Publisher: PE "Center of Excellence"

Document type: Analytical article

Abstract

The article is devoted to analysing the role of a teacher as an agent of change in the transformation conditions of Kazakhstan’s education system, especially in the context of rural small schools. The study focuses on the role of the teacher of the leading school as a mentor and an organiser of network interaction. The paper presents the results of the empirical research conducted based on the Smirnov school-gymnasium, including questionnaires, interviews and documentation analysis. Positive changes in pedagogical practices, growth of professional confidence and involvement of rural teachers are revealed. A model of a teacher-agent of change is presented, including personal and professional qualities, competencies, leadership functions, roles, mechanisms of influence and adaptability. The importance of supporting teachers in rural areas and institutionalising inter-school cooperation for sustainable educational change is highlighted.

Key words: teacher-agent of change, network interaction, pedagogical leadership, small schools

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