My Leadership Personal Statement

The term “teacher leader” is commonly heard within educational circles today, but arriving at a clear definition

Firstly, in my Academic Career, I have held a multitude of leadership roles. My sophomore year , I was a class representative for Family, Career, and Community Leaders of America, commonly known as FCCLA. It was my duty to alert members and keep them up to date regarding meetings and activities. As a representative of FCCLA, I learned how to work as a unit leader and a team member.That same school year, I ran for the district office of secretary for FCCLA. The nomination and election process, gave me the opportunity to grow and nurture my leadership abilities. It was eminently challenging; but I learned the importance of discipline and hard work. I accomplished my goal and was nominated Secretary for FCCLA. This office allowed me to meet plenty

I naturally adapt to the role of being a leader and desire to provide additional assistance to others. I demonstrate outstanding

I have had many accomplishments and times of leadership. Some leadership roles I have participated in are: being Deacons Quorum President, Senior Patrol Leader, Band, Cross Country, “Teacher’s PET” in 5th grade, and Basketball. Some achievements I’ve accomplished are: being #1 on the reading hall of fame in 5th grade, had 4 Band concerts, gone to Scout Camp and helped with eagle projects, been to 7 Cross Country meets, and been on 3 Basketball teams.

Another goal that I have had since the beginning of the course was to adopt an engaging and effective teaching style. My aim has been to take the positive traits of teachers that I have enjoyed, while keeping in mind the characteristics and mannerisms that I have disliked, and crafting my own unique teaching style. As I have lead class discussions, group readings, and mini-lessons throughout the semester I have began to develop a teaching style through trial and error. I have paid special attention to the list of 25 pointers for successful tutees from assignment two and and focused on making my teaching interactive, supportive, equal for all, and respectful. I have learned to appreciate that, concerning a student's individual success, a teacher taking the time to listen to their student is just as important as the student listening to the teacher.

Modeling is crucial for teacher leadership. In my twenty-three years as an educator, I have learned that the best way for me to teach others is by first modeling the practices myself. As a teacher leader, it is important that I model sound, professional characteristics to gain the respect of others. I have to maintain a positive, inclusive environment for all stakeholders of the learning community. This begins in the classroom by using scientifically-based, differentiated instruction to meet the needs of diverse populations of learners. In addition, this modeling continues to fellow colleagues and administrators by demonstrating a passion for educating myself, as well as others.

Within the school and community, I demonstrate many qualities of leadership. To help promote school activities, last winter and spring I participated in the production of the musical by set painting. I spent time after school, during the weekend, and during study halls to paint the set so it was ready by march. I hope to

Through my leadership I have convinced many people to believe in themselves to try something new. One of my favorite moments from high school was when I convinced a freshman FFA member to try public speaking.

I occupy my time in clubs and activities that both captivate my interest and are most important for my peers and me. These include but are not limited to my positions in Link Crew, Student Council, and Senior Board. They range from Senior Class Representative to Vice President. Many of my teachers and mentors have identified a characteristic of mine as a great leader, and I wanted to improve on these skills. I don't dominate discussion or action, I simply guide it. I take all of my positions seriously and always bring my best attitude; my leadership methods distinguish me from other

Despite the many challenges I face daily, remembering that I significantly influence the lives of each my students will help me in becoming a better teacher leader. Reason and Reason (2011) states that a mission will not come to fruition without ownership and ownership cannot be stimulated without consistently reminding everyone why they come to work each day. It is my mission every day to transform lives in my classroom and school environment. I have chosen a career in education because I believe that it is one of the most important functions performed in our culture. I believe that teachers individually and collectively have the ability to not only change the world but to improve it.

This job enables me to gain a new understanding of ‘leadership’. From my previous perspectives, leadership was hierarchical and leader should hold all the powers to make final decisions. However, in our team, we worked as a whole and shared same values and goals, which provided opportunities for me, as a leader, not only to work with both foreign teachers and local teachers, but also empower and strengthen their capacities to handle an activity as a leader.

There have been times in my life in which I have sat back and watched things happen. I often wondered why they happened. I now realize that it is important to be a leader. Effective teachers need to take charge and make things happen. I am becoming a teacher to make things happen and not sit back and let them happen as I used to do. This is very important for a teacher to realize. I will take charge and make wonderful things happen in my classroom.

I will push my students to explore and fulfill their potential by having them set goals. When the goals are achieved, this will build their confidence and

Over the years, I have worn many educator hats such as a Director of Resource, classroom teacher, Head Start teacher, special’s teacher, and as a teacher’s aide. My leadership experiences have not been ones in an administrative role, but I have had leadership experiences both informal and formal in nature. My years as a professional educator with a Virginia Collegiate Professional license has allowed me to teach in public settings as well as Catholic schools, at many different grade levels and for me, all of those experiences have influenced my leadership skills.

Over the course of my studies I feel I have grown as a teacher leader. I no longer take leadership opportunities for granted. The courses here at Lamar have shown me that no matter if the leadership opportunity is formal or informal it still can have an enormous impact on student success. I also attribute my growth to the additional