Leadership: Professional learning that increases educator effectiveness and results for all students requires skillful leaders who develop capacity, advocate, and create support systems for professional learning.
Most people think of leadership as a position and therefore don’t see themselves as leaders.
“In common with other leaders, teacher leaders seekchallenge, change, and growth.”
The hybrid role fills the niche of allowing great teachers to stay plugged into the classroom while also allowing them to expand their scope of influence by interacting with teachers and students outside of their assigned classes.
Teachers exhibit leadership in multiple, sometimes overlapping, ways. Some leadership roles are formal with designated responsibilities. Other more informal roles emerge as teachers interact with their peers. The variety of roles ensures that teachers can find ways to lead that fit their talents and interests. Regardless of the roles they assume, teacher leaders shape the culture of their schools, improve student learning, and influence practice among their peers.
In order to be effective with their colleagues, teacher leaders found it necessary to learn a variety of leadership skills while on the job. Those skills included: Building trust and developing rapport Diagnosing organizational conditions Dealing with processes Managing the work Building skills and confidence in others