In periods where there is no leadership, society stands still. Progress occurs when courageous, skillful leaders seize the opportunity to change things for the better. —Harry S. Truman
In periods where there is no leadership, society stands still. Progress occurs when courageous, skillful leaders seize the opportunity to change things for the better. —Harry S. Truman
In his novel Out of Our Minds: Learning to be Creative, Sir Ken Robinson defines innovation as “the process of putting new ideas into practice.” (Kindle Loc 344) Teachers innovate in their classrooms every day, but in leading outside of the classroom, sometimes teachers need to see what it looks like to innovate.
So far in this journey, you found your inspiration and your passion. Now it’s time to find your influence!
When teachers speak up–and policy makers listen
Some Colorado teachers influenced legislation that promises to “shake up the status quo, inspiring innovation in how we teach students and how we prepare and support teachers.” Find out how they did it.
Tips for teachers participating in policy discussions
In a roomful of high heels, business suits, and directors, one math teacher offered her voice to a discussion on the Common Core. Read her tips for being successful despite intimidation.
Stand Tall & Speak Up: 5 Tips for Addressing your State Board of Ed
Jessica Cuthbertson inspires with a call to action: “We must stand tall and speak up. We must see ourselves as professionals and experts in our field. We must share our stories from the classroom.”
Four ways for teachers to “engage”
How do teachers counteract negative perceptions? David Cohen identifies four ways for teachers to engage with parents, politicians, and other groups in between.
Viewing the Education Ecosystem
Do teacher leaders miss the forest while focusing on the trees? Ariel Sacks focuses on the importance of teacher leaders as connectors between policy and practice.
Action Step: After reading these articles, do your own research on what state and local initiatives you could lead or contribute to. Do you want to start in an area of passion and need or do you want to join a conversation that desperately needs a teacher’s perspective? Create one goal for finding your influence in your department, building, district, or state.
Want to engage with a group of teacher leaders from around the nation and the world? Join the CTQ Collaboratory and become a part of a growing virtual community engaged in conversations around teaching, learning, and leadership.
