This class has been a very effective class in the sense that it has combined the essential characteristics of leadership with technological integration. This class has reinforced my concept that a leader must be firm yet compassionate, but above all, the voice of reason; stoic. As far as teacher leadership is concerned, I think that this position is a little bit trickier to define. Whereas a teacher leader is unquestionably a leader, they must make sure that they don't over step their authority, combating the administration, or offending their peer colleagues. However, by maintaining a professional relationship with all parties involved, a teacher leader should be able to serve his/her department members productively.
Through this class, I feel like my perception of my own leadership has changed. Whereas I've always been in spots that require leadership (teaching, parenting, and coaching), I haven't always viewed myself as a great leader. Now, it's not that I feel like I'm a great leader now, but I do realize that I have the ability, provided I display active listening skills, and lead with kindness/logic.
Lastly, our text mentioned that the only way to improve education is from within; a statement of which I agree. By adjusting the infrastructure of our system, we can create an establishment that self-perpetuates learning. We simply need to find a way to motivate our students in a much more intrinsic fashion. Before we look at privatizing our system, I hope we figure out how to make this happen.
I think you are right about not fighting the administration. One of the key points of this class was that you need to recruit people to your ideas from within the administration. That way they will be supported and you can use your leadership to enhance the district. I am sure you will be able to create some great changes within your district.
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