BECOMING A TEACHER LEADER

Teachers who are committed to their profession have similar qualities to leaders in other areas. They are not just thinking about themselves, but how their efforts will produce successes for all of those who are a part of their profession.

Teachers have various levels of school leadership qualities. Some are learned and some are part of their personality. Great teachers possess a combination of leadership qualities that are respected by the students, parents, peers and the community. They can accomplish important tasks because of this connection they have with their profession and the people they touch through it.

But what are the best characteristics of teacher leaders? First and foremost, they are commitment to their students and their role as a teacher. When one talks about a person’s commitment to teaching, they are speaking of a deep connection with many people throughout the organization.

They are dedicated to providing each student the best possible environment and tools for learning. They work with the parents to understand what challenges the students may have to learning and what approaches might work best with them individually.

In addition, they also engage their coworkers for input on how to structure their lesson plans and teaching style to be the best educator. Great teachers are also highly involved with the institution to create the highest quality educational opportunities for the students.

Moreover, another indicator of a teacher leader is their utmost passion about teaching and learning. As a leader, teachers are always practicing their art and learning how to improve their techniques. They listen in class for opportunities to teach. One student’s question can drive an entire lesson plan from which all students will benefit. Teachers are not looking for short answers. They look for explanations that present several concepts and perspectives to the students.

These teachers watch their peers and learn from their teaching styles. They ask to be observed and for feedback on how to reach the students in their classroom. They are open to suggestions and to trying new things. They know how to quickly adjust their style. They will also be involved in activities that improve teaching within the organization, like leading a group to review and comment on the adopted approaches to teaching various topics or deliver presentations to student teachers on best practices within the classroom.

If you aspire to become one, you must also remember that collaboration with others is very important. Teachers know that the best way to be successful is to work with others to create a quality teaching environment. They will look for those with similar passions and solicit support from people at all levels within the school system. They maintain the respect from others for their high quality of teaching standards, and they give recognition to others for their approaches.

A teacher leader knows that they can’t do it all by themselves so the he or she looks for others with the right skills to help and support. They also don’t take all of the credit for success. They share it throughout the team with which they work.

Meanwhile, in line with collaboration are communication and rapport. Great teachers are great communicators. They know the best ways to interact with students, parents, faculty, and coworkers. They are skilled at listening and respect the opinions and ideas of others. Teachers know how to communicate their own ideas so others will understand. They look for different ways to communicate knowing that people are receptive to various techniques.

Lastly, a teacher leader knows how to embracing change. Throughout every teacher’s career a number of changes will occur. The class profile can be different from year to year. The materials used in the classroom changes. Administrators and policies change. A great teacher knows this and anticipates change. They are courageous about trying new things and aren’t hesitant to make adjustments until they are as effective as they can be.

Change gives teachers the opportunity to perform their roles even better. So rather than waiting until they are directed, they seek out ways to improve. They know this not only benefits themselves, but also the students and faculty with which they work.

In this modern age, teacher leadership is an idea whose time has come. The unprecedented demands being placed on schools today require leadership at every level. By understanding the phenomenon of teacher leadership and helping teachers develop the skills required to act as leaders, we will improve schools and help students realize their full potential.

As a teacher, I am committed to do my best to be a leader myself. I envision to create a classroom culture that inspires every student to do their best. It aspire of being able to move specific systems, structures, and social norms that ensure that the classroom is filled with only excellence and joy.

The author is Teacher

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III at Cabetican Elementary School Bacolor South District