Finding My Leadership Style

As I reflect on my leadership style I find it difficult to fit in one category. The three roles that the teacher leader can play are listed below:

Patricia Phelps (2008) wrote, "There are multiple roles that teacher leaders can fulfill. Lieberman and Miller (2004) emphasize three roles: advocates, innovators, and stewards. Advocates speak up for what is best for student learning. They exhibit a keen ability to frame and reframe issues so that students and learning remain the central focus. Advocacy can take place in one-on-one encounters as well as in whole-group settings. Innovators act as change agents to transform schools. Unafraid to try something new, they make suggestions and implement new practices. Innovators are creative doers, not just thinkers. Stewards are those who positively shape the teaching profession itself. Staunch supporters and models of professional growth, stewards help raise the status of teaching. Stewards are not as vocal as advocates and innovators, but they consistently serve as models of continued improvement. An example of each role in action will provide additional insight.

At this point in my development I am transitioning from being more of an innovator and balancing it with being a steward. Over the years I have developed several programs in my school and in my local community. I have enjoyed the success of these programs through serving others. Lately I find other teachers reaching out to me as they come to me for suggestions on integrating the arts, or to just bounce around an idea or two. The creative process is my wheel house. I can fill my head with ideas very quickly,  so it helps me to work with an activator who can keep me focused on planning. This past week I have been collaborating with our Director of Middle School on some ideas for a school wide art celebration in honor of The National Kindness Challenge. I am inspired by her activist leadership style, and I look forward to seeing our community come together celebrating the arts.

My leadership in the arts and learning has impacted my school and my community in positive ways over the past decade. I hadn't really thought about it much until lately. Mostly, I have been feeding my passions and following my heart's desire. It's time for me to get more concrete. Formulating my vision, and putting it down on paper will help me to focus in on my ultimate goal. What will my Magnum Opus be? I guess that all depends. It depends on where there is a need for what I bring, and how I can best use it to increase awareness. Awareness of ourselves, of each other, and how we can bring out the best in each other for a better future.

"Once motivated to extend one's influence beyond the classroom, a teacher needs to know about possible outlets for impact."

I will be listening with my eyes wide open for ways that I can make a bigger impact. This, in return, will make a positive impact in my school.




Phelps, Patricia H. The Clearing House 81.3 (Jan/Feb 2008): 119-122.