What is a Teacher Leader?

 What do you think?

In March 2014 the Maine Arts Assessment Initiative Teacher Leaders were asked to answer the following question: What is a Teacher Leader. Below are their answers.

able to see big picture… flexible/able to change their practice – effective communicator – good listener -facilitator – able to think on their feet – committed/passionate/reflective

life long learner

someone who can model/mentor in their discipline for other teachers and admin.

someone who is passionate about their work as an arts educator

everyone needs to define for self in multiple contexts: class, school, state, national…

someone willing to share and be flexible, willing to try new things + take risks… willing to jump in

someone with vision and abilities –communication skills -may not know it!

stand up for principles and advocate!

identify your strengths and those being led

someone with desire to improve and willing to face new changes.-an engaged learner-aware of

strengths and weaknesses

needs sense of purpose and guidelines as to how to fill that purpose

share in multiple ways; “talking about” isn’t always best

how evolved… where going… not a recipe

importance of developing your voice as a TL

be a facilitator

focused on student growth & well-being- student centered!

share your experience and engage the participants and provide resources

realistic expectations for self and community

modeling and giving good examples

needs to be animated/enthusiastic (especially as a teacher with kids)