5 ways to Become A Teacher Leader
The term “teacher leader” is used in education to describe any role that supports the growth of teachers. This may include role titles such as instructional coach, PD facilitator, subject area specialist, academic dean, administration, colleague mentor and even a cooperating teacher for student teachers. Regardless of the title, those who support the growth of teachers have an important role in the success of the school. Their impact is two fold- by increasing a teacher’s skill level, the academic achievement of students rise as a result.
This post will outline 5 ways in which an educator can become a teacher leader.
Make your Intentions Known
The best way to ensure your future becomes what you dream it to be, is to let others know your desires. When they know what you want to do or become, they will encourage you to get there. Share your ideas for leadership with your colleagues and administrative team. As opportunities arise, your name will be top of mind and they will recommend you. If you keep your dream to yourself, no one will be able to support that dream coming to fruition.
Do your Homework
Learn as much as you can prior to opportunities coming to pass. Read as many educational books on leadership, subscribe to online newsletters from current leaders, and attend conferences about teacher leadership to grow your skillset while also allowing you to create relationships with others who are where you want to be. The more you learn now, the easier the transition into leadership will be later down the road.
Lead Without a Title
Just because you don’t have an official leadership title, doesn’t mean you can’t support the growth of teachers. Have an open door policy with your colleagues, inviting them in to brainstorm teaching ideas or talk through obstacles. Follow up with others you help to see if they were successful and continue supporting them if needed. When a leadership job opens up, not only will others think to recommend you for it because they know you want to be a leader, but they now have first hand experience of how much you have helped them.
Shadow Teacher Leaders
Find colleagues who are leading with and without a title. Watch them in action. Take note of their leadership style and results. This will help you develop your own skillset tailoring your approach to your personality and leadership style. Watching someone lead live gives you a more realistic view of what the role may entail. When you shadow a variety of teacher leaders you will be exposed to the numerous ways in which teachers can be supported. This will help you nail down the role that may be the perfect fit for you in terms of alignment to your goals.
Interview, Interview, Interview
It may take numerous interviews before landing a job. Don’t take that personally. Sometimes a district has a requirement to interview a certain number of candidates before extending an offer to a candidate, even when they already know how they plan to hire. Other times, you may not be a fit for their current needs and they may not be a good fit for the environment you wish to work in. The more times you interview, the more practice you get answering hard questions off the cuff, supporting your answers with evidence (ie. specific ways you helped teachers and the results of those interactions), and exuding confidence to showcase your capability in the role. Interview for a variety of teacher leadership roles because even if you do not land your ideal role at first, it will help you gain experience and exposure that will be advantageous next time you interview.
Resources
Below are resources that will help you begin preparing for you teacher leadership role.
- Download Now:
- Teacher Leader Interview Questions
- PD on Demand (high leverage topics to help other teachers with)
- Blog Posts:
- Podcast Episodes:
Once you land your job, enroll in my Teacher Leadership Mastermind! We meet virtually every other week in a fall or spring cohort model. You’ll connect with other teacher leaders across the nation, set personalized goals and track your progress, as well as celebrate your wins in a supportive environment.
Best of luck to you on your journey…
GO BE GREAT!
About the author, Gretchen
I am a teacher trainer and coach. Working elbow to elbow with teachers and teacher leaders to ensure instructional proficiency and student achievement soar lights me up. We have a real need in our nation for strong educators to remain in the field. My blog, book, podcast, courses and instructional materials are geared towards empowering teachers (and those that lead them) to receive the support needed to grow and thrive today, tomorrow and always.