This qualitative narrative inquiry aimed to explore current classroom teachers' preferred leadership characteristics of school leadership; specifically, the complex relationship between teacher perception of principal leadership characteristics and their influence on teacher retention on Title I campuses. This was a 2-part narrative inquiry focusing on principal leadership characteristics and Kurt Lewin's leadership style framework was used for the 4 leadership style characteristics. The leadership style characteristics were drawn from the following: autocratic, democratic, laissez-faire, and transformational. The characteristics represented specific qualities of each leadership style. The study included a questionnaire and an interview to determine perceptions and experiences of high school teachers' preferred leadership characteristics. The methods deployed in the study was a two-part narrative approach: questionnaire and semi structured interview. The research underscores the critical importance of principal leadership in influencing teacher experiences and retention, particularly by highlighting the value of preferred leadership traits in fostering supportive and motivating work environments. [The dissertation citations contained here are published with the permission of ProQuest LLC. Further reproduction is prohibited without permission. Copies of dissertations may be obtained by Telephone (800) 1-800-521-0600. Web page: http://www.proquest.com.bibliotheek.ehb.be/en-US/products/dissertations/individuals.shtml.]