Teacher Leader Interview
1. Why did you decide to take this interview for me? I took the interview because I currently have the time in my schedule and I believe that some of the best learning comes from sharing ideas and collaborating with others.
2. How would you define teacher leadership? Teacher leadership can be taken on inside and outside the classroom. Teacher leaders can help revolutionize education by creating change in their classroom/school and by directly or indiretly influencing district and government policy.
3. What contributions have you made as a teacher leader in your school, district, and community? How did you become involved in making these contributions (volunteering, required by administrator, paid role, etc.)? I served as a cooperating teacher (Las Vegas) and as a mentor to three music teachers and two art teachers (Wisconsin). I became involved in both these roles after an administrator requested my participation. The cooperating teacher role was a paid role.
4. What are some examples of good leading (students, classroom, teachers, support staff, parents, community, etc.)? What challenges have you observed or experienced in these leadership roles? I believe that good leaders lead by example. Good leaders guide and do not control. Good leaders help others capitalize on their strengths and identify their weaknesses. I also believe that good leaders inspire. They inspire others to do more and be more than they ever imagined. Good leaders listen and think before they speak or act.
5. What inspires and/or encourages you to lead? Are there any specific experiences that have inspired/encouraged you? I would have to say that most of my inspiration to lead has been fostered by administrators. Sometimes it takes someone elses vote of confidence to inspire you to take on something outside your comfort zone.
6. What hinders you from leading? Can you describe any experiences where you were hindered from leading? I have a fear of public speaking so I seem to stray away from leadership roles that involve speaking to large adult groups. Most of my leadership roles have been one-on-one or small group, situations that I feel more comfortable/confident with.
7. Why did you become a teacher or become involved with the school system? I became a teacher because I enjoy sharing my passion for art and learning. Also, I think teaching is in my genes. My mother was an administrator, my older brother is a science teacher/tennis coach, and my younger brother is a tennis instructor.
8. How would you define "school culture"? How important is school culture in creating an effective learning environment? What factors affect school culture negatively and positively? School culture is the environment, climate, beliefs, values and traditions of a school. I believe that school culture is incredibly important in creating an effective learning environment. I believe that peoples’ attitudes have the greatest impact on a school’s culture. I’ve personally experienced an instance where a change of attitude was my saving grace. Participation and lack of participation can affect school culture. I’ve experience an instance where lack of parental participation had a negative impact on the school’s culture. The students’ attitudes about education were negatively affected by their parents lack of particiation.
9. What advice would you give teachers (or other members of the school community) who want to become more involved in teacher leadership? How might you inspire them?
To get the US school system turned around it’s going to take a team effort. Bright, talented, creative, and passionate individuals (most teachers I know fit that bill ) are going to have to step out of their comfort zones and become leaders. “Be the change you want to see in the world” -Gandhi
10. How does the administration at your school affect teacher leadership? I’ll have to think back to my experience in Wisconsin. The administration in WI had a great affect on teacher leadership. They created many opportunities for teachers to take on leadership roles. One instance was a mentoring program where new teachers were paired with veteran teachers. They met once a month to a month to housekeep, brainstorm, share, and vent. Another instance was a team leader program. Every two grades were “teamed” together and met once a week. A veteran teacher of the group was chosen to lead the team and would facilitate team planning, etc. They were also asked to sponsor/ organize three school events during the year.
11. How do you deal with negativity at your school? I pretty much try to ignore any negativity. If I can’t ignore it then sometimes I’ll try to put a different spin on it. I’ve been told that I play the devil’s advocate a lot
12. How do balance your personal and professional responsibilities? Mark is very good about leaving his professional responsibilities at work. I’ve tried to adopt this philosophy I think that if you are successful in leaving your prof. responsibilities at work, then you can create a division (physically and mentally) which will allow you to fully engage and enjoy you personal responsibilities.
Tuesday, July 20, 2010
Sunday, July 18, 2010
Teacher Leader Interview Synthesis/Summary
1. Why did you decide to take this interview for me?
*Friendship
*Expertise in the field
*Necessary component of strong schools
*To show a focus on teachers as leaders not teachers who want to be administrators
*As part of continuing education
*Being a colleague or former colleague
*Teaching is important
*It’s good to hear what others have to say
*It’s interesting
*Helping a colleague
2. How would you define teacher leadership?
*Taking extra responsibilities in classroom
*Professional development: classes, meetings, workshops
*Go the extra mile for students and grade level
*Dealing with the day in/day out school tasks: master schedule, events, times, instructional program, staff requirements, activities, testing, & community outreach.
*Mentoring
*Representing school and student body effectively
*Leading fellow teachers, new teachers, other staff, students, & families
*Not necessarily administrative
*Leading with effectiveness & passion
*Listening
*Acknowledging everyone is a contributor
*Taking & giving advice
*Differentiating instruction
*Being a positive role model within & without the school
*Teaching life skills to students
*Making decisions for the school
*Getting everyone involved
*Keeping the peace
*Being an educational advocate in classroom, school, community, and beyond
3. What contributions have you made as a teacher leader in your school, district, and community? How did you become involved in making these contributions (volunteering, required by administrator, paid role, etc.)?
*Being on leadership team
*Plan school activities
*Communicate with community
*Creating master schedule
*Creating school wide plans
*Writing grants
*Going to meetings
*Involvement in & leadership of National, State, Local professional development organizations
*Mentoring
*Involvement &/or Chairing school committees
*Community Performances
*Coaching
*Clubs
*Community Charity groups
4. What are some examples of good leading (students, classroom, teachers, support staff, parents, community, etc.)? What challenges have you observed or experienced in these leadership roles?
*Involving community: literacy, math, science nights, carnivals, enlisting community help,
*Supporting the needs of the school & community
*Reflecting
*Assisting teachers with implementation of mandates
*Doing & thinking about what is best for children
*Drawing upon teachers’ strengths
*Strong classroom management
*Respect
*Challenging students
*Allowing students to ask questions
*Community Performances
*Being above reproach morally
*Keeping peace
*Positive role model
*Volunteering for the school & community
*Upper management supporting teachers
5. What inspires and/or encourages you to lead? Are there any specific experiences that have inspired/encouraged you?
*Learning
*Sharing knowledge
*A contributed idea being used and implemented
*Hearing or offering information outside the box
*Positive impact on students & community
*Mentoring
*Quality Professional Development
*Teaching other adults: speed-reading, literature circles, pottery, etc.
*Seeing things get done
*Being in control
*Seeing others succeed
*Being challenged
*”A-ha” moments
*Helping others
*Gaining confidence
*Having a good reputation
*Giving & receiving positive feedback
6. What hinders you from leading? Can you describe any experiences where you were hindered from leading?
*Having all the ideas
*People assuming others will do it
*Time
*Lack of acceptance
*Assumptions
*Strong personalities
*Inexperience
*Youngness
*Veteran teachers stuck in their ways
*Not working collaboratively
*Monotonous leadership roles
7. Why did you become a teacher or become involved with the school system?
*Love for kids
*Love of learning
*Varied experiences
*Inspired by a subject or past teacher
*Did not like previous career
*To have a positive & meaningful impact on children
*Rewarding
*Love meeting new people
*Teaching children life skills to be better members of society
*Days off
*Creative outlet
*Way to share ideas
*Always wanted to do it
8. How would you define "school culture"? How important is school culture in creating an effective learning environment? What factors affect school culture negatively and positively?
*Belief in students
*The attitude of the teachers, staff, students, & community.
*Pride in the school
*Respect in the school
*”Type” of students, teachers, & community
*Atmosphere
*Aesthetic
*Comfort
*Safety, security, & happiness of school
*Getting along together
*School “vibe”
*Common goal
*Communication
9. What advice would you give teachers (or other members of the school community) who want to become more involved in teacher leadership? How might you inspire them?
*Start small
*Being the voice of those who can’t be heard
*Self-assessment of one’s gifts & how one could best serve
*Focusing on rewards & positives
*Showing teachers they make a difference
*Revisit times of excellent leadership & how that affected the school positively
*Affirmation that teaching is hard work
*Love what you do
*Don’t complain/vent in inappropriate company
*Be the change you want to see
*Be involved
*Be outspoken
*Start committees where you see need
*Don’t be afraid
10. How does the administration at your school affect teacher leadership?
*They have to ability to implement or hold back teacher ideas
*They facilitate new ideas
*They encourage or inhibit teacher leadership
*They can provide opportunities for teacher leadership
*They are responsible for unifying or unraveling a school
*Set the tone for the school, morale, & culture
*The administration cause the school to be positive or negative
11. How do you deal with negativity at your school?
*Listening
*Finding solutions
*Ignoring it
*Validating legitimate concerns
*Stay out of it
*Look past it
*Smile
*Establishing a core group of friends
*Vent when necessary to the right ears
*Keeping a file with positive notes and emails to read
*Making positive phone calls home
12. How do balance your personal and professional responsibilities?
*Keep work at work
*Wise time management
*Inviting friends & family to attend school events
*Keeping personal your first priority
*Enlist family’s help
*Reaching an understanding with spouse
*Keep professional/personal life separate
*Going to work early to get things done
*Work hard & play hard
*Relaxing
*Enjoying hobbies
*Friendship
*Expertise in the field
*Necessary component of strong schools
*To show a focus on teachers as leaders not teachers who want to be administrators
*As part of continuing education
*Being a colleague or former colleague
*Teaching is important
*It’s good to hear what others have to say
*It’s interesting
*Helping a colleague
2. How would you define teacher leadership?
*Taking extra responsibilities in classroom
*Professional development: classes, meetings, workshops
*Go the extra mile for students and grade level
*Dealing with the day in/day out school tasks: master schedule, events, times, instructional program, staff requirements, activities, testing, & community outreach.
*Mentoring
*Representing school and student body effectively
*Leading fellow teachers, new teachers, other staff, students, & families
*Not necessarily administrative
*Leading with effectiveness & passion
*Listening
*Acknowledging everyone is a contributor
*Taking & giving advice
*Differentiating instruction
*Being a positive role model within & without the school
*Teaching life skills to students
*Making decisions for the school
*Getting everyone involved
*Keeping the peace
*Being an educational advocate in classroom, school, community, and beyond
3. What contributions have you made as a teacher leader in your school, district, and community? How did you become involved in making these contributions (volunteering, required by administrator, paid role, etc.)?
*Being on leadership team
*Plan school activities
*Communicate with community
*Creating master schedule
*Creating school wide plans
*Writing grants
*Going to meetings
*Involvement in & leadership of National, State, Local professional development organizations
*Mentoring
*Involvement &/or Chairing school committees
*Community Performances
*Coaching
*Clubs
*Community Charity groups
4. What are some examples of good leading (students, classroom, teachers, support staff, parents, community, etc.)? What challenges have you observed or experienced in these leadership roles?
*Involving community: literacy, math, science nights, carnivals, enlisting community help,
*Supporting the needs of the school & community
*Reflecting
*Assisting teachers with implementation of mandates
*Doing & thinking about what is best for children
*Drawing upon teachers’ strengths
*Strong classroom management
*Respect
*Challenging students
*Allowing students to ask questions
*Community Performances
*Being above reproach morally
*Keeping peace
*Positive role model
*Volunteering for the school & community
*Upper management supporting teachers
5. What inspires and/or encourages you to lead? Are there any specific experiences that have inspired/encouraged you?
*Learning
*Sharing knowledge
*A contributed idea being used and implemented
*Hearing or offering information outside the box
*Positive impact on students & community
*Mentoring
*Quality Professional Development
*Teaching other adults: speed-reading, literature circles, pottery, etc.
*Seeing things get done
*Being in control
*Seeing others succeed
*Being challenged
*”A-ha” moments
*Helping others
*Gaining confidence
*Having a good reputation
*Giving & receiving positive feedback
6. What hinders you from leading? Can you describe any experiences where you were hindered from leading?
*Having all the ideas
*People assuming others will do it
*Time
*Lack of acceptance
*Assumptions
*Strong personalities
*Inexperience
*Youngness
*Veteran teachers stuck in their ways
*Not working collaboratively
*Monotonous leadership roles
7. Why did you become a teacher or become involved with the school system?
*Love for kids
*Love of learning
*Varied experiences
*Inspired by a subject or past teacher
*Did not like previous career
*To have a positive & meaningful impact on children
*Rewarding
*Love meeting new people
*Teaching children life skills to be better members of society
*Days off
*Creative outlet
*Way to share ideas
*Always wanted to do it
8. How would you define "school culture"? How important is school culture in creating an effective learning environment? What factors affect school culture negatively and positively?
*Belief in students
*The attitude of the teachers, staff, students, & community.
*Pride in the school
*Respect in the school
*”Type” of students, teachers, & community
*Atmosphere
*Aesthetic
*Comfort
*Safety, security, & happiness of school
*Getting along together
*School “vibe”
*Common goal
*Communication
9. What advice would you give teachers (or other members of the school community) who want to become more involved in teacher leadership? How might you inspire them?
*Start small
*Being the voice of those who can’t be heard
*Self-assessment of one’s gifts & how one could best serve
*Focusing on rewards & positives
*Showing teachers they make a difference
*Revisit times of excellent leadership & how that affected the school positively
*Affirmation that teaching is hard work
*Love what you do
*Don’t complain/vent in inappropriate company
*Be the change you want to see
*Be involved
*Be outspoken
*Start committees where you see need
*Don’t be afraid
10. How does the administration at your school affect teacher leadership?
*They have to ability to implement or hold back teacher ideas
*They facilitate new ideas
*They encourage or inhibit teacher leadership
*They can provide opportunities for teacher leadership
*They are responsible for unifying or unraveling a school
*Set the tone for the school, morale, & culture
*The administration cause the school to be positive or negative
11. How do you deal with negativity at your school?
*Listening
*Finding solutions
*Ignoring it
*Validating legitimate concerns
*Stay out of it
*Look past it
*Smile
*Establishing a core group of friends
*Vent when necessary to the right ears
*Keeping a file with positive notes and emails to read
*Making positive phone calls home
12. How do balance your personal and professional responsibilities?
*Keep work at work
*Wise time management
*Inviting friends & family to attend school events
*Keeping personal your first priority
*Enlist family’s help
*Reaching an understanding with spouse
*Keep professional/personal life separate
*Going to work early to get things done
*Work hard & play hard
*Relaxing
*Enjoying hobbies
Saturday, July 17, 2010
Teacher Leader Interview 7
1. Why did you decide to take this interview for me?
Because you are a friend and you asked. Also, it is something that I was involved in and can help you to get an assignment done.
2. How would you define teacher leadership?
Teacher leadership can be seen in many different ways. One is just the invidual in their classroom taking on the extra responsibilities of being a teacher. They might take classes, attend meetings (school, district and community) and go the extra mile for their students or grade level team. Teachers can also be involved in leadership more formally at their school if they have a leadership team. This team many be responsible for the everyday in and outs of school. The master schedule, events, times, instructional programs, staff requirements, activities that the school creates, testing, community outreach and many more.
3. What contributions have you made as a teacher leader in your school, district, and community? How did you become involved in making these contributions (volunteering, required by administrator, paid role, etc.)? I was asked to be a part of the leadership team, but I believe that is because I often take on extra roles and do things on my own. This year the role was 1/2 paid for but in previous years it was volunteer. I have been on some sort of leadership team for the past three years. By being a part of this team, I have helped plan activities, communicate with the community, create the master schedule, work on school wide plans (incentives, behavior, rewards) I have worked on two committees to write two grants. I have attended lots of meetings where I get new information and bring it back to the school and eventually the teachers.
4. What are some examples of good leading (students, classroom, teachers, support staff, parents, community, etc.)? Getting the community and families involved in things at school. Creating literacy, math and science nights. Having carnivals and using community members to assist and support these events. Supporting the needs of the students, teachers and community with each choice and decision that we make. Thinking about if it is best for kids. Reflecting on how it impacts students and teachers. Assisting teachers with implementation and supporting what ever decision was made.
5. What inspires and/or encourages you to lead? Are there any specific experiences that have inspired/encouraged you? I just really enjoy being in the know. I love to have information and being able to share that information with everyone. I also like to hear a variety of ideas and have discussions that lead to final decsions. Often times I feel that my input is often something new or outside of the box. I am encouraged when I see things that the team has done put into place. I like when there is a positive impact on students, teachers and our community.
6. What hinders you from leading? Can you describe any experiences where you were hindered from leading? Sometimes I don't want to be the one with all the ideas or the one who decides on everything. I would like to hear everyone elses ideas and see if there is something new that I have never thought about. Often times I try to wait to give my opinion or idea until everyone else has expressed theirs. Sometimes other staff see me as someone who knows it all or who is the only one who requiring changes or something new. This makes me feel bad and that it was not a whole team decision.
7. Why did you become a teacher or become involved with the school system? I love kids. I have also had a some amazing teachers when I was growing up. They showed me what a difference I can make, because they made it with me. As I have taught for 7 years now, I enjoy learning something new all the time. I really like that no day is the same, even if you are teaching the same grade or lesson, students make your days and lessons go in different ways everytime. Teaching is new and exciting every year.
8. How would you define "school culture"? How important is school culture in creating an effective learning environment? What factors affect school culture negatively and positively? The culture of the school is made up by the, staff, students and community. It takes their behavior, attitudes and commitment into account. School culture is extreemly important to the effectiveness of a school. Without the belief in students and the impact that each of those groups has on the school the school can not be successful. If anyone of those groups has a bad attitude they can be like poision and pulled down the rest of the school community. But it also works in the inverse way, where their positive attitudes can pull everyone up and create a better learning and teaching environment.
9. What advice would you give teachers (or other members of the school community) who want to become more involved in teacher leadership? How might you inspire them? I would just tell them to start somewhere. If it be little, in their classrooms or with thier own child or just giving up sometime to be involved in something for the school. By getting involved in leadership, you can really have an impact on your school. You can have a voice in things that are done and not done and have the opportunity to change it all.
10. How does the administration at your school affect teacher leadership? The administrator plays a key role in all leadership, because it is they who have the ability to give the go a head or hold back with any idea. It is their job to help facilitate the leadership team and give them the power and ability to get new ideas heard and put things into place. With out the support and communication of an administrator, all the work on the leadership team may be a loss.
11. How do you deal with negativity at your school? Listen, to allow people to vent about their feelings or emotions. Then talk with them about why they are feeling that way and try to solve the situation, by talking with others or speaking my own opinion. Other times I just ingnore the negativity. It really depends on who it is coming from, often times you know that it will always be from the same people and there is nothing you can do or say to help the situation or make them feel better.
12. How do balance your personal and professional responsibilities? I try to get my work done while I am at work. I spend my time very thoughtfully, so that I don't have to bring things home. But I also value that sometimes there are things that need to be worked on outside the school day. After school activities I invite my friends and family to attend, not only to support my school, but so I can spend time with them. I also utilize my family to help with easy tasks that I can't complete at home. But overall I just use my time as wisely as possible, so that I have as much time with my personal life as I can.
Because you are a friend and you asked. Also, it is something that I was involved in and can help you to get an assignment done.
2. How would you define teacher leadership?
Teacher leadership can be seen in many different ways. One is just the invidual in their classroom taking on the extra responsibilities of being a teacher. They might take classes, attend meetings (school, district and community) and go the extra mile for their students or grade level team. Teachers can also be involved in leadership more formally at their school if they have a leadership team. This team many be responsible for the everyday in and outs of school. The master schedule, events, times, instructional programs, staff requirements, activities that the school creates, testing, community outreach and many more.
3. What contributions have you made as a teacher leader in your school, district, and community? How did you become involved in making these contributions (volunteering, required by administrator, paid role, etc.)? I was asked to be a part of the leadership team, but I believe that is because I often take on extra roles and do things on my own. This year the role was 1/2 paid for but in previous years it was volunteer. I have been on some sort of leadership team for the past three years. By being a part of this team, I have helped plan activities, communicate with the community, create the master schedule, work on school wide plans (incentives, behavior, rewards) I have worked on two committees to write two grants. I have attended lots of meetings where I get new information and bring it back to the school and eventually the teachers.
4. What are some examples of good leading (students, classroom, teachers, support staff, parents, community, etc.)? Getting the community and families involved in things at school. Creating literacy, math and science nights. Having carnivals and using community members to assist and support these events. Supporting the needs of the students, teachers and community with each choice and decision that we make. Thinking about if it is best for kids. Reflecting on how it impacts students and teachers. Assisting teachers with implementation and supporting what ever decision was made.
5. What inspires and/or encourages you to lead? Are there any specific experiences that have inspired/encouraged you? I just really enjoy being in the know. I love to have information and being able to share that information with everyone. I also like to hear a variety of ideas and have discussions that lead to final decsions. Often times I feel that my input is often something new or outside of the box. I am encouraged when I see things that the team has done put into place. I like when there is a positive impact on students, teachers and our community.
6. What hinders you from leading? Can you describe any experiences where you were hindered from leading? Sometimes I don't want to be the one with all the ideas or the one who decides on everything. I would like to hear everyone elses ideas and see if there is something new that I have never thought about. Often times I try to wait to give my opinion or idea until everyone else has expressed theirs. Sometimes other staff see me as someone who knows it all or who is the only one who requiring changes or something new. This makes me feel bad and that it was not a whole team decision.
7. Why did you become a teacher or become involved with the school system? I love kids. I have also had a some amazing teachers when I was growing up. They showed me what a difference I can make, because they made it with me. As I have taught for 7 years now, I enjoy learning something new all the time. I really like that no day is the same, even if you are teaching the same grade or lesson, students make your days and lessons go in different ways everytime. Teaching is new and exciting every year.
8. How would you define "school culture"? How important is school culture in creating an effective learning environment? What factors affect school culture negatively and positively? The culture of the school is made up by the, staff, students and community. It takes their behavior, attitudes and commitment into account. School culture is extreemly important to the effectiveness of a school. Without the belief in students and the impact that each of those groups has on the school the school can not be successful. If anyone of those groups has a bad attitude they can be like poision and pulled down the rest of the school community. But it also works in the inverse way, where their positive attitudes can pull everyone up and create a better learning and teaching environment.
9. What advice would you give teachers (or other members of the school community) who want to become more involved in teacher leadership? How might you inspire them? I would just tell them to start somewhere. If it be little, in their classrooms or with thier own child or just giving up sometime to be involved in something for the school. By getting involved in leadership, you can really have an impact on your school. You can have a voice in things that are done and not done and have the opportunity to change it all.
10. How does the administration at your school affect teacher leadership? The administrator plays a key role in all leadership, because it is they who have the ability to give the go a head or hold back with any idea. It is their job to help facilitate the leadership team and give them the power and ability to get new ideas heard and put things into place. With out the support and communication of an administrator, all the work on the leadership team may be a loss.
11. How do you deal with negativity at your school? Listen, to allow people to vent about their feelings or emotions. Then talk with them about why they are feeling that way and try to solve the situation, by talking with others or speaking my own opinion. Other times I just ingnore the negativity. It really depends on who it is coming from, often times you know that it will always be from the same people and there is nothing you can do or say to help the situation or make them feel better.
12. How do balance your personal and professional responsibilities? I try to get my work done while I am at work. I spend my time very thoughtfully, so that I don't have to bring things home. But I also value that sometimes there are things that need to be worked on outside the school day. After school activities I invite my friends and family to attend, not only to support my school, but so I can spend time with them. I also utilize my family to help with easy tasks that I can't complete at home. But overall I just use my time as wisely as possible, so that I have as much time with my personal life as I can.
Teacher Leader Interview 6
1. Why did you decide to take this interview for me? Teacher leadership is necessary to build strong schools. Unfortunately, most teacher leadership programs are focused on teachers who intend to advance to administration as opposed to teachers who intend to continue to teach students as well as serve as leader for other teachers.
2. How would you define teacher leadership? Teacher leadership is teachers who facilitate growth in other teachers be offering mentorship, training and guidance to other teachers.
3. What contributions have you made as a teacher leader in your school, district, and community? I have served as a teacher leader in several ways. I have mentored new teachers on an individual basis. I have hosted student-teachers. I been a presenter at professional development days for new teachers as well as experienced teachers. I have been served on the board of the professional development organization (NDVC) as treasurer and president. I am currently the Orff Festival co-Chair and have served as a committee chair in the past. I am currently the grade level chair at my school, a position I have held in the past. How did you become involved in making these contributions (volunteering, required by administrator, paid role, etc.)? I became involved in each of these roles voluntarily. Although I have been asked to take on these roles by administrators, they have not been required, nor have I benefitted from additional pay.
4. What are some examples of good leading (students, classroom, teachers, support staff, parents, community, etc.)? A good leader identifies the needs of the community in which they intend to serve. Their role is to provide support for the needs of the community. A teacher who is mentoring a newer teacher, the experienced teacher works with the new teacher for the benefit of the new teacher’s students. A teacher leader serves the students by providing leadership to other teachers, parents, etc. What challenges have you observed or experienced in these leadership roles? The biggest challenge to being a teacher leader is lack of time. No additional time is given to teacher leaders to carry out their role. Most of the time spent on these activities comes from personal time.
5. What inspires and/or encourages you to lead? Are there any specific experiences that have inspired/encouraged you? When I was a new teacher, I taught in a private school and had no colleagues to go to for help. As I became a more experienced teacher and as I became a more educated teacher through quality professional development, I realized I had something to offer others. Since I was unable to receive help as a new teacher myself, it is rewarding to be able to help others when they need it.
6. What hinders you from leading? Can you describe any experiences where you were hindered from leading? The biggest hindrance from leadership is time. The time spent on leadership roles is taken out of personal time not professional time.
7. Why did you become a teacher or become involved with the school system? I became a teacher because I wanted to share the joy of music that I have with others. At a music camp I attended in high school, there was a teacher who was able to inspire us to expand our musicianship and I wanted to be able to do the same things for m students.
8. How would you define "school culture"? School culture is the environment of the school as created by its stakeholders (administration, teachers, parents, student, school’s namesake, etc.) How important is school culture in creating an effective learning environment? School culture is very important to creating an effective learning environment. When student have their basic needs met, physically, emotionally and psychologically, they have the ability to focus on the task of learning. What factors affect school culture negatively and positively? The greatest factor affecting school culture is attitude. With the correct attitude, amazing things are possible. A negative attitude inhibits efforts to create a positive school climate.
9. What advice would you give teachers (or other members of the school community) who want to become more involved in teacher leadership? How might you inspire them? A teacher who would like to be more involved in teacher leadership should first undergo a self-assessment to have an understanding of what they have to offer and of how they would like to serve others. They should use the information from their self-assessment to look for opportunities in a variety of situations in which they can take a leadership role. Volunteering to do the job which no one wants to take can sometimes be the most rewarding experience.
10. How does the administration at your school affect teacher leadership? The administration at my school encourages teacher leadership. Many opportunities exist for teachers to serve as a chairperson and on committees.
11. How do you deal with negativity at your school? There is not a lot of negativity at my school. We have been subjected to several rounds of zoning changes and budget cuts. The biggest concerns teachers have is regarding what we are losing in terms of outstanding staff members and resources. These concerns are valid because they will affect students and the learning environment.
12. How do balance your personal and professional responsibilities? Time management. It is important to carve out a time for professional responsibilities which is not affected by personal responsibilities. Likewise, I protect a portion of my personal time which is not affected by professional responsibilities. It’s all a matter of balance.
2. How would you define teacher leadership? Teacher leadership is teachers who facilitate growth in other teachers be offering mentorship, training and guidance to other teachers.
3. What contributions have you made as a teacher leader in your school, district, and community? I have served as a teacher leader in several ways. I have mentored new teachers on an individual basis. I have hosted student-teachers. I been a presenter at professional development days for new teachers as well as experienced teachers. I have been served on the board of the professional development organization (NDVC) as treasurer and president. I am currently the Orff Festival co-Chair and have served as a committee chair in the past. I am currently the grade level chair at my school, a position I have held in the past. How did you become involved in making these contributions (volunteering, required by administrator, paid role, etc.)? I became involved in each of these roles voluntarily. Although I have been asked to take on these roles by administrators, they have not been required, nor have I benefitted from additional pay.
4. What are some examples of good leading (students, classroom, teachers, support staff, parents, community, etc.)? A good leader identifies the needs of the community in which they intend to serve. Their role is to provide support for the needs of the community. A teacher who is mentoring a newer teacher, the experienced teacher works with the new teacher for the benefit of the new teacher’s students. A teacher leader serves the students by providing leadership to other teachers, parents, etc. What challenges have you observed or experienced in these leadership roles? The biggest challenge to being a teacher leader is lack of time. No additional time is given to teacher leaders to carry out their role. Most of the time spent on these activities comes from personal time.
5. What inspires and/or encourages you to lead? Are there any specific experiences that have inspired/encouraged you? When I was a new teacher, I taught in a private school and had no colleagues to go to for help. As I became a more experienced teacher and as I became a more educated teacher through quality professional development, I realized I had something to offer others. Since I was unable to receive help as a new teacher myself, it is rewarding to be able to help others when they need it.
6. What hinders you from leading? Can you describe any experiences where you were hindered from leading? The biggest hindrance from leadership is time. The time spent on leadership roles is taken out of personal time not professional time.
7. Why did you become a teacher or become involved with the school system? I became a teacher because I wanted to share the joy of music that I have with others. At a music camp I attended in high school, there was a teacher who was able to inspire us to expand our musicianship and I wanted to be able to do the same things for m students.
8. How would you define "school culture"? School culture is the environment of the school as created by its stakeholders (administration, teachers, parents, student, school’s namesake, etc.) How important is school culture in creating an effective learning environment? School culture is very important to creating an effective learning environment. When student have their basic needs met, physically, emotionally and psychologically, they have the ability to focus on the task of learning. What factors affect school culture negatively and positively? The greatest factor affecting school culture is attitude. With the correct attitude, amazing things are possible. A negative attitude inhibits efforts to create a positive school climate.
9. What advice would you give teachers (or other members of the school community) who want to become more involved in teacher leadership? How might you inspire them? A teacher who would like to be more involved in teacher leadership should first undergo a self-assessment to have an understanding of what they have to offer and of how they would like to serve others. They should use the information from their self-assessment to look for opportunities in a variety of situations in which they can take a leadership role. Volunteering to do the job which no one wants to take can sometimes be the most rewarding experience.
10. How does the administration at your school affect teacher leadership? The administration at my school encourages teacher leadership. Many opportunities exist for teachers to serve as a chairperson and on committees.
11. How do you deal with negativity at your school? There is not a lot of negativity at my school. We have been subjected to several rounds of zoning changes and budget cuts. The biggest concerns teachers have is regarding what we are losing in terms of outstanding staff members and resources. These concerns are valid because they will affect students and the learning environment.
12. How do balance your personal and professional responsibilities? Time management. It is important to carve out a time for professional responsibilities which is not affected by personal responsibilities. Likewise, I protect a portion of my personal time which is not affected by professional responsibilities. It’s all a matter of balance.
Thursday, July 15, 2010
Teacher Leader Interview 5
1. Because I love you! And I think it is also vital for teachers to continue the learning experience by furthering our education continuously. So if I can help you do that, it is win/win.
2. Teacher leadership means that as educators, you not only strive to represent your school and student body effectively, but you use your position to its fullest by being a leader to fellow teachers, new educators, other staff members, and students and their families. I don't believe you have to be an administrator to show leadership.
3. Since becoming a GATE specialist, my roles and responsibilities have changed somewhat. Because I am at more than one school and because teachers often feel my position is "too easy", I am often regarded as unimportant. I try to make up for their misconceptions by working on committees, especially special education and he SIP team. It is not required of me. As for serving as a teacher leader in the District and community, I don't feel as if I have enough time as a mother and wife to do so!
4. I think they having teachers serve as mentors to new teachers is a wonderful chance to lead. I also wish teachers leaned on each other's strengths more. For example, if a teacher is very comfortable teaching Math, what can he or she do to assist others in becoming better Math teachers? The challenges that go along with that seem to: lack of time, teacher's unwillingness to take constructive criticism, etc.
5. I have always enjoyed teaching other adults. I have taught speed-reading courses, held literature circles, I even taught a pottery class! For me, I learn better when I go through the motions of something myself. So not only could I benefit someone with my teaching, I could also learn at the same time.
6. The one thing that hinders me from leading is when over teachers, namely classroom teachers, do not want to accept my opinions or learn from my experiences because they think I became a GATE teacher for the easy way out and that I was never a classroom teacher. (So untrue!!!)
7. I became a teacher because after I received my undergrad in Social Work, I found that I was struggling with the unfairness of the system. Parents were often given more rights than children. I knew I wanted to work with children, but I felt in that environment, I would be unhappy seeing all the abuse, the judicial acceptance, etc. In school, I have more affect on those children because I am with them for a longer amount of time all day long.
8. School culture is an issue at one of schools right now. I believe school culture is the pride everyone feels when representing their school. It is the respect the teachers, staff, administrators, and students give to each other. Without a positive school culture, the learning environment is affected because the students don't respect the staff because the staff doesn't care. It leads to huge issues with cyclical behavior.
Supportive administrators with open doors help school culture to work. Allowing horrible teachers to remain at your school, ignoring parent and teacher concerns, and not providing incentives to the students for excellent learning has a negative effect on school climate.
9. What advice would you give teachers (or other members of the school community) who want to become more involved in teacher leadership? How might you inspire them?
For teachers, I think it is just a matter of making them feel like they will be able to help someone in need or make an impact. There are often so few teachers or staff members at each school that really want to dig their heels in and represent their school. It cannot always be the same handful of people. The learning experience would be better with a variety of knowledge and experience. I think the only way to inspire them to be better leaders is to revisit specific times when a teacher or administrator or staff member showed excellent leadership and give examples of how it affected different people.
10. How does the administration at your school affect teacher leadership?
They are essentially the foundation for all that goes on. If the administration does not unify and work to encourage positive school climate and teacher leadership by being good examples themselves, then the school will ultimately fail.
11. How do you deal with negativity at your school?
I try to stay out of it! But honestly? I think that just like any workplace it is impossible NOT to have some. However, I think it can be curbed if everything works like a well oiled machine and where the staff members are invested in their school.
12. How do balance your personal and professional responsibilities?
Still trying to figure out that one! But as of right now, I will say my personal life most important. That does not mean that I do not stay after or do extracurricular activities at the schools I work at. But because I am at two schools and my husband is also a teacher, there are often times our special events coincide, so we try to take turns representing our schools as best as we can without neglecting our children.
2. Teacher leadership means that as educators, you not only strive to represent your school and student body effectively, but you use your position to its fullest by being a leader to fellow teachers, new educators, other staff members, and students and their families. I don't believe you have to be an administrator to show leadership.
3. Since becoming a GATE specialist, my roles and responsibilities have changed somewhat. Because I am at more than one school and because teachers often feel my position is "too easy", I am often regarded as unimportant. I try to make up for their misconceptions by working on committees, especially special education and he SIP team. It is not required of me. As for serving as a teacher leader in the District and community, I don't feel as if I have enough time as a mother and wife to do so!
4. I think they having teachers serve as mentors to new teachers is a wonderful chance to lead. I also wish teachers leaned on each other's strengths more. For example, if a teacher is very comfortable teaching Math, what can he or she do to assist others in becoming better Math teachers? The challenges that go along with that seem to: lack of time, teacher's unwillingness to take constructive criticism, etc.
5. I have always enjoyed teaching other adults. I have taught speed-reading courses, held literature circles, I even taught a pottery class! For me, I learn better when I go through the motions of something myself. So not only could I benefit someone with my teaching, I could also learn at the same time.
6. The one thing that hinders me from leading is when over teachers, namely classroom teachers, do not want to accept my opinions or learn from my experiences because they think I became a GATE teacher for the easy way out and that I was never a classroom teacher. (So untrue!!!)
7. I became a teacher because after I received my undergrad in Social Work, I found that I was struggling with the unfairness of the system. Parents were often given more rights than children. I knew I wanted to work with children, but I felt in that environment, I would be unhappy seeing all the abuse, the judicial acceptance, etc. In school, I have more affect on those children because I am with them for a longer amount of time all day long.
8. School culture is an issue at one of schools right now. I believe school culture is the pride everyone feels when representing their school. It is the respect the teachers, staff, administrators, and students give to each other. Without a positive school culture, the learning environment is affected because the students don't respect the staff because the staff doesn't care. It leads to huge issues with cyclical behavior.
Supportive administrators with open doors help school culture to work. Allowing horrible teachers to remain at your school, ignoring parent and teacher concerns, and not providing incentives to the students for excellent learning has a negative effect on school climate.
9. What advice would you give teachers (or other members of the school community) who want to become more involved in teacher leadership? How might you inspire them?
For teachers, I think it is just a matter of making them feel like they will be able to help someone in need or make an impact. There are often so few teachers or staff members at each school that really want to dig their heels in and represent their school. It cannot always be the same handful of people. The learning experience would be better with a variety of knowledge and experience. I think the only way to inspire them to be better leaders is to revisit specific times when a teacher or administrator or staff member showed excellent leadership and give examples of how it affected different people.
10. How does the administration at your school affect teacher leadership?
They are essentially the foundation for all that goes on. If the administration does not unify and work to encourage positive school climate and teacher leadership by being good examples themselves, then the school will ultimately fail.
11. How do you deal with negativity at your school?
I try to stay out of it! But honestly? I think that just like any workplace it is impossible NOT to have some. However, I think it can be curbed if everything works like a well oiled machine and where the staff members are invested in their school.
12. How do balance your personal and professional responsibilities?
Still trying to figure out that one! But as of right now, I will say my personal life most important. That does not mean that I do not stay after or do extracurricular activities at the schools I work at. But because I am at two schools and my husband is also a teacher, there are often times our special events coincide, so we try to take turns representing our schools as best as we can without neglecting our children.
Teacher Leader Interview 4
1. Why did you decide to take this interview for me? You are a good friend and former colleague! :)
2. How would you define teacher leadership? The ability to lead with effectiveness and passion. It requires the ability to listen, take advice, and acknowledge that everyone can contribute as well. Teachers must understand that students all learn differently and we must adjust to that, no matter how difficult it may be.
3. What contributions have you made as a teacher leader in your school, district, and community? How did you become involved in making these contributions (volunteering, required by administrator, paid role, etc.)? I have been on several different committees at my school, and my previous schools. They were all volunteer basis. I have continued my education by getting my masters degree, and will continue my education further with other classes to help support new ideas that will help me become a better teacher.
4. What are some examples of good leading (students, classroom, teachers, support staff, parents, community, etc.)? What challenges have you observed or experienced in these leadership roles?Good leading involves good management as well as support. Students help support and manage each other, when modeled by the teacher. Example: I refer to my students as ma'am and sir. I always say please and thank you. They in turn see that as respect and give respect in return. Directions are given clearly and repeated as necessary. Time is given for questions and no question is seen as silly. Challenges have come with non supportive parents. Parents who see discipline as being "mean" to their child is very hard for me. They often want to be their child's friend more than a parent, or will just simply blame their child's behavior on others rather than take advice given on how to help.
5. What inspires and/or encourages you to lead? Are there any specific experiences that have inspired/encouraged you? I like a challenge. I am also a control freak in a lot of ways. I like to see things through and get things done. I like to see others succeed, so being a leader helps in that way.
6. What hinders you from leading? Can you describe any experiences where you were hindered from leading? Others who have the same, or stronger personality than me. We may butt heads at times, and then I may back off when I should stand my ground. There are a couple of people I work with, who I shall not name names, who just love to get their way, and often I will just let it go when I know darn well I need to speak up and I find myself regretting it later.
7. Why did you become a teacher or become involved with the school system? I worked with children from the time I could babysit. I tried other jobs but never felt satisfied. I hated them. Kids are my life. I feel so rewarded in my job. I can't see myself doing anything else.
8. How would you define "school culture"? How important is school culture in creating an effective learning environment? What factors affect school culture negatively and positively? School culture is made up of many things: the types of students you have; the types of colleagues you work with, and the administration. You can't control the students you get, but the people you work with can definitely affect the negative aspect. I find a lot of people are just negative. That totally sucks. They often see the glass as half empty rather than half full. I like to be positive. We may not like all the things we have to do but we should just look at the bright side of it. The kids feed off of negativity. Then the spiral downward begins.
9. What advice would you give teachers (or other members of the school community) who want to become more involved in teacher leadership? How might you inspire them? Give them both sides. Teaching is hard work, but it is very rewarding. They have to know it's hard, but they also have to know what they get out of it. If they are truly wanting to be leaders, they will do it.
10. How does the administration at your school affect teacher leadership? Their attitude. If they present a positive light on things, then we are on board. If they are negative Nelly's, then forget it. It's hard to work for someone who is on your case all the time, or showing favoritism for someone.
11. How do you deal with negativity at your school? I try to look past it but it's very hard at times.
12. How do balance your personal and professional responsibilities? I leave work at work. I try not to bring work home with me. If I do, thank god I have kids who can help!
2. How would you define teacher leadership? The ability to lead with effectiveness and passion. It requires the ability to listen, take advice, and acknowledge that everyone can contribute as well. Teachers must understand that students all learn differently and we must adjust to that, no matter how difficult it may be.
3. What contributions have you made as a teacher leader in your school, district, and community? How did you become involved in making these contributions (volunteering, required by administrator, paid role, etc.)? I have been on several different committees at my school, and my previous schools. They were all volunteer basis. I have continued my education by getting my masters degree, and will continue my education further with other classes to help support new ideas that will help me become a better teacher.
4. What are some examples of good leading (students, classroom, teachers, support staff, parents, community, etc.)? What challenges have you observed or experienced in these leadership roles?Good leading involves good management as well as support. Students help support and manage each other, when modeled by the teacher. Example: I refer to my students as ma'am and sir. I always say please and thank you. They in turn see that as respect and give respect in return. Directions are given clearly and repeated as necessary. Time is given for questions and no question is seen as silly. Challenges have come with non supportive parents. Parents who see discipline as being "mean" to their child is very hard for me. They often want to be their child's friend more than a parent, or will just simply blame their child's behavior on others rather than take advice given on how to help.
5. What inspires and/or encourages you to lead? Are there any specific experiences that have inspired/encouraged you? I like a challenge. I am also a control freak in a lot of ways. I like to see things through and get things done. I like to see others succeed, so being a leader helps in that way.
6. What hinders you from leading? Can you describe any experiences where you were hindered from leading? Others who have the same, or stronger personality than me. We may butt heads at times, and then I may back off when I should stand my ground. There are a couple of people I work with, who I shall not name names, who just love to get their way, and often I will just let it go when I know darn well I need to speak up and I find myself regretting it later.
7. Why did you become a teacher or become involved with the school system? I worked with children from the time I could babysit. I tried other jobs but never felt satisfied. I hated them. Kids are my life. I feel so rewarded in my job. I can't see myself doing anything else.
8. How would you define "school culture"? How important is school culture in creating an effective learning environment? What factors affect school culture negatively and positively? School culture is made up of many things: the types of students you have; the types of colleagues you work with, and the administration. You can't control the students you get, but the people you work with can definitely affect the negative aspect. I find a lot of people are just negative. That totally sucks. They often see the glass as half empty rather than half full. I like to be positive. We may not like all the things we have to do but we should just look at the bright side of it. The kids feed off of negativity. Then the spiral downward begins.
9. What advice would you give teachers (or other members of the school community) who want to become more involved in teacher leadership? How might you inspire them? Give them both sides. Teaching is hard work, but it is very rewarding. They have to know it's hard, but they also have to know what they get out of it. If they are truly wanting to be leaders, they will do it.
10. How does the administration at your school affect teacher leadership? Their attitude. If they present a positive light on things, then we are on board. If they are negative Nelly's, then forget it. It's hard to work for someone who is on your case all the time, or showing favoritism for someone.
11. How do you deal with negativity at your school? I try to look past it but it's very hard at times.
12. How do balance your personal and professional responsibilities? I leave work at work. I try not to bring work home with me. If I do, thank god I have kids who can help!
Wednesday, July 14, 2010
Teacher Leadership Interview 3
1. Why did you decide to take this interview for me?
Because my teaching job is very important to me and I think we all learn from what others have to say and because I think it’s very interesting.
2. How would you define teacher leadership?
Being a positive role model in the classroom and out of the classroom and helping to teach the students how to be good people and about life skills. So many of them don’t get that at home. Being a leader and involved in the decision making of our school is important because how good the school is ultimately affects the students and staff.
3. What contributions have you made as a teacher leader in your school, district, and community?
My school, Schofield Middle School, opened ten years ago and since we opened my Madrigal Singers have been responsible for community performances in the Las Vegas / Henderson area. They perform for the Grand Opening nights for the following 4 Christmas caroling events every fall: Gift of Lights in Sunset Park, Ethel M. Chocolate Factory Cactus Garden Lighting, Henderson Symphony performance and the Henderson Winter Fest Christmas tree lighting with the mayor – all 4 of these events are televised so it is great exposure for our school (active in our community) and for choral music in the school district and State of Nevada. If voters and legislative members hear about us, see us around town or on TV that is a good thing!
I have also been the chairperson for the Clark County School District Middle School Honor Choir for the past 10 years and chairperson for the Nevada Music Educators Association Middle School All-State Choir for the past 5 years. I like doing this for my colleagues and their students. I get to meet other students and awesome clinicians/conductors who come and work with the choirs. Again, great connections too!
How did you become involved in making these contributions (volunteering, required by administrator, paid role, etc.)?
The performances started out as a directive to get involved with the community to help make a name for our school. I have kept it up because we have made great connections and the students and I enjoy following through every year. I don’t get paid extra at all for the performances – I don’t mind spending this time with the kids – they are a great bunch.
4. What are some examples of good leading (students, classroom, teachers, support staff, parents, community, etc.)?
What I mentioned above in the first part of the question.
5. What inspires and/or encourages you to lead? Are there any specific experiences that have inspired/encouraged you?
I like to help others and I don’t expect anything from doing it. I love to see when students and other teachers “get it” and you can see that you’ve inspired another person in your field of education.
6. What hinders you from leading? Can you describe any experiences where you were hindered from leading?
No, I have been very fortunate to not be hindered. I make things happen
7. Why did you become a teacher or become involved with the school system?
I like meeting people and I love music – music is my life and also what my license plate says I like teaching at the middle school level because I feel that I can still get through to them and teach them many things besides music. I’ve taught high school too and they are already set in their ways. I believe that the more involved you are the more you learn and the more you know about your field.
8. How would you define "school culture"? How important is school culture in creating an effective learning environment? What factors affect school culture negatively and positively?
School culture is the atmosphere, aesthetic, comfort level and the feeling you get when you enter a school. This is very important while trying to create an effective learning environment. Our school participates in a new program called “Be Kind”. If a student is caught being kind, they receive a wristband and a t-shirt celebrating the life of a young boy, Josh, who died. Josh felt that kindness was the biggest thing missing in kids. He was always trying to spread kindness to others.
9. What advice would you give teachers (or other members of the school community) who want to become more involved in teacher leadership? How might you inspire them?
You have to love what you do, otherwise you aren’t an inspiring leader to others. Students can see right through a teacher who doesn’t and those are the teachers that you ‘hear’ them talk or complain about
10. How does the administration at your school affect teacher leadership?
We have a principal that has been with us for the past 3 years now and he has totally changed the overall moral and culture. Administrative support is crucial for everyone – parents, students and the teachers. If you’re not happy at work, the students are going to be, the parents aren’t going to be…
11. How do you deal with negativity at your school?
I smile and do my best to ignore when I hear of anything – I stay away from those teachers too. Luckily there isn’t much at our school. Our leadership doesn’t put up with it and by fluke, negative teachers don’t stay at our school
12. How do balance your personal and professional responsibilities?
I didn’t start a family to ignore them and I always keep in mind that work is work and it should stay there. It will be waiting for me the next day. My spouse is a choral music teacher just like me and we understand the business of the job and that choral music takes a little more time than other teaching fields. We always work out performance schedules, school schedules and other things way ahead of time so we don’t get stressed or have conflicting events. We are very supportive of each other’s choral programs that are very dear to us both. We allow each other the time to strengthen it, which makes home life very comfortable.
Because my teaching job is very important to me and I think we all learn from what others have to say and because I think it’s very interesting.
2. How would you define teacher leadership?
Being a positive role model in the classroom and out of the classroom and helping to teach the students how to be good people and about life skills. So many of them don’t get that at home. Being a leader and involved in the decision making of our school is important because how good the school is ultimately affects the students and staff.
3. What contributions have you made as a teacher leader in your school, district, and community?
My school, Schofield Middle School, opened ten years ago and since we opened my Madrigal Singers have been responsible for community performances in the Las Vegas / Henderson area. They perform for the Grand Opening nights for the following 4 Christmas caroling events every fall: Gift of Lights in Sunset Park, Ethel M. Chocolate Factory Cactus Garden Lighting, Henderson Symphony performance and the Henderson Winter Fest Christmas tree lighting with the mayor – all 4 of these events are televised so it is great exposure for our school (active in our community) and for choral music in the school district and State of Nevada. If voters and legislative members hear about us, see us around town or on TV that is a good thing!
I have also been the chairperson for the Clark County School District Middle School Honor Choir for the past 10 years and chairperson for the Nevada Music Educators Association Middle School All-State Choir for the past 5 years. I like doing this for my colleagues and their students. I get to meet other students and awesome clinicians/conductors who come and work with the choirs. Again, great connections too!
How did you become involved in making these contributions (volunteering, required by administrator, paid role, etc.)?
The performances started out as a directive to get involved with the community to help make a name for our school. I have kept it up because we have made great connections and the students and I enjoy following through every year. I don’t get paid extra at all for the performances – I don’t mind spending this time with the kids – they are a great bunch.
4. What are some examples of good leading (students, classroom, teachers, support staff, parents, community, etc.)?
What I mentioned above in the first part of the question.
5. What inspires and/or encourages you to lead? Are there any specific experiences that have inspired/encouraged you?
I like to help others and I don’t expect anything from doing it. I love to see when students and other teachers “get it” and you can see that you’ve inspired another person in your field of education.
6. What hinders you from leading? Can you describe any experiences where you were hindered from leading?
No, I have been very fortunate to not be hindered. I make things happen
7. Why did you become a teacher or become involved with the school system?
I like meeting people and I love music – music is my life and also what my license plate says I like teaching at the middle school level because I feel that I can still get through to them and teach them many things besides music. I’ve taught high school too and they are already set in their ways. I believe that the more involved you are the more you learn and the more you know about your field.
8. How would you define "school culture"? How important is school culture in creating an effective learning environment? What factors affect school culture negatively and positively?
School culture is the atmosphere, aesthetic, comfort level and the feeling you get when you enter a school. This is very important while trying to create an effective learning environment. Our school participates in a new program called “Be Kind”. If a student is caught being kind, they receive a wristband and a t-shirt celebrating the life of a young boy, Josh, who died. Josh felt that kindness was the biggest thing missing in kids. He was always trying to spread kindness to others.
9. What advice would you give teachers (or other members of the school community) who want to become more involved in teacher leadership? How might you inspire them?
You have to love what you do, otherwise you aren’t an inspiring leader to others. Students can see right through a teacher who doesn’t and those are the teachers that you ‘hear’ them talk or complain about
10. How does the administration at your school affect teacher leadership?
We have a principal that has been with us for the past 3 years now and he has totally changed the overall moral and culture. Administrative support is crucial for everyone – parents, students and the teachers. If you’re not happy at work, the students are going to be, the parents aren’t going to be…
11. How do you deal with negativity at your school?
I smile and do my best to ignore when I hear of anything – I stay away from those teachers too. Luckily there isn’t much at our school. Our leadership doesn’t put up with it and by fluke, negative teachers don’t stay at our school
12. How do balance your personal and professional responsibilities?
I didn’t start a family to ignore them and I always keep in mind that work is work and it should stay there. It will be waiting for me the next day. My spouse is a choral music teacher just like me and we understand the business of the job and that choral music takes a little more time than other teaching fields. We always work out performance schedules, school schedules and other things way ahead of time so we don’t get stressed or have conflicting events. We are very supportive of each other’s choral programs that are very dear to us both. We allow each other the time to strengthen it, which makes home life very comfortable.
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