#TeacherEdChat Archive
We invite all educators to contribute to the conversation of preparing preservice teachers as well as practicing teachers for the realities of the 21st-century classroom. This includes principals, in-service teachers, university supervisors of student teachers, education professors, higher education administration, instructional technology specialists, and so on. Anyone with a vested interest in supporting our teachers in preparation for teaching the diverse K-12 student population is invited to participate.
Monday September 19, 2016
Welcome to My name is Rosa Isiah, Principal in CA. I'm happy 2be your guest moderator tonight. Please tell us about yourself
I'm Taylor and I'm a preservice secondary math teacher at Elon University in NC!
Hello joining from CT where I teach graduate education courses with a focus on ed technology.
Greetings! I'm an NBCT in AZ teaching 3rd grade this year.
Hello, everyone Shana from GA where I'm currently a MS technology coordinator. Hope everyone is well.
Bennie Bradley, Middle School Assistant Principal from High Point, NC
Welcome, Windy, to tonight's
Dan, business teacher from St. Louis. Popping in and out tonight as I prep to moderate at 9pm CST.
Hi Julie here from FL, VP & CoFounder consulting co
Hello Bennie. You're the 2nd person so far to join tonight from NC
Hi ! Akilah, Professional Learning Specialist from VA. Will be dropping in for a few!
Hello! My name is Kathy & I'm Languge Instrucctional Specialist from Houston. Excited to join this chat :)
Get ready! After and hop on over to extend the night of great inspiration! begins in… https://t.co/s4C7A1OZyg
We're just an hour away from Tonight's topic, building leadership capacity w/ & a cast of many. All are welcome!
Scott from Sacramento...Science TOSA
Hello, Shana. We cross paths often. Good to see you tonight on
We will use a Q1, Q2.. format for questions tonight. Please use A1, A2, etc for your answers. We'll get started in 2 minutes.
Welcome, Scott, to tonight's
Good evening. Jim Smith, Lighthouse Learning Community, Minnesota
wonderful. Please use the hashtag
Eric, Special Education teacher, teaching in Brazil
We have an exciting group joining tonight and we're only just beginning the chat!
Hi, Eric, and glad to see you are here tonight on
I'm thrilled to be here tonight! Let's get started...
Q1 What beliefs do you hold about about the role of teacher leaders?
Hello from AZ, JH Spanish and EdTech Coach
Welcome, Kathi, & we just posted the 1st question for so you arrived on time.
A1 that most teachers should be a teacher leader. We all do something cool worth sharing
A1: Teacher Leaders are innovative teachers who lead but don't leave.
1st time jumping in with this chat - Looking forward to it.
Ben - elementary AP from WI
A1: All teachers in the right environment have the potential to be educational leaders
A1 innovators, not afraid of failure, willing to be critiqued, always wanting to learn more, collaborator, puts ss first
A1 Teacher leaders lead change in our schools. TLs support, coach, encourage learning for all https://t.co/72tsrMXm6i
Q1 What beliefs do you hold about about the role of teacher leaders?
World Cup of hockey, Monday night football, Raw, vs and going to be a couch kind of night!
A1 Teacher leaders can be great agents of change if they're empowered to lead
A1) Teacher leaders should model expertise & lead PDs
A1 A strong expertise, to help the new and the veteran alike. Also, a profound level of patience comes in handy
A1 leadership is for the few. It should be from all areas
A1: Ts who are not afraid to break routine and try something new. Chance to be innovative and trendsetter in the building.
Well put...our teacher leaders R often encouraged 2go into admin. Not everyone wants to be a principal
teacher leaders create internal capacity and help create a culture of trust where learning is valued
A1 Teacher leaders have the potential to shape & impact culture more than any other factor in a school or district. Powerful!
A1: Teacher leaders should model best practices in education, even if they're not the most popular
A1: Teacher leaders exude creativity, spirit, passion and joy for all elements of teaching;they are heart & soul of teaching
A1 Teacher leaders are very important to help the students and administration.
A1: I believe if it is done well it can reignite teacher enthusiasm for teaching. Being able to have voice.
Just like students grow alongside teachers, teachers grow alongside teacher leaders too
Beautifully stated, Dan. https://t.co/j6uMN9YnGU
A1: Ts who are not afraid to break routine and try something new. Chance to be innovative and trendsetter in the building.
A1: Educational leaders create other leaders, do right by all Ss, aren't content with status quo and have integrity.
A1: Teacher leaders can lead from wherever they are... Many ways to lead... Key to affecting change...
I agree. I work with teachers who are amazing leaders but choose to stay leaders for the love of their building.
my friend...music to my ears. Welcome to btw.
I agree teacher leaders have passion & they're not afraid to advocate for their believes and Ss
A1) They need to be supported & they will support, motivate, & push others to grow & try to cont improve
A1: Administrators need to provide the environment for potential teacher leaders to lead & be courageous
And when they recognize & accept that impact- it is an unstoppable force
Q1 teacher leaders influence informal interactions on a school that promote a positive culture
The biggest impact on teachers and teaching comes from colleagues. Indeed! https://t.co/SSFXFRSGRg
Just like students grow alongside teachers, teachers grow alongside teacher leaders too
A1: They are an extension of the school's vision. They play an important middle role.
Yes! Teacher Leaders have fearlessness because passions are grounded in what's needed for the whole child.
Yes! Developing our voice as experts in our profession. https://t.co/XfRB8Knt3r
A1: I believe if it is done well it can reignite teacher enthusiasm for teaching. Being able to have voice.
A1: Teacher leaders can also show strength via community-based outreach & projects, engaging students
So true. Teacher leaders connect with others beyond the walls of their classroom/school
Teacher Leaders are Renaissance Men and Women...so talented! https://t.co/7Mu658mYU3
A1 Teacher leaders lead change in our schools. TLs support, coach, encourage learning for all https://t.co/72tsrMXm6i
Q1 What beliefs do you hold about about the role of teacher leaders?
Like the analogy of Renaissance people for teacher leaders
Q2 What are necessary attributes of teacher leader change agents?
the experts are in the room
A1 they also seek out PD opportunities
A1: Teacher leaders are also change agents and see positive changes carried through
Q2 Great communication skills
A2 Willingness to take risks, caring for others & passionate about & changing the world
A2: Passion, determination, respect from colleagues, & wisdom characterize teacher leaders as change agents
a must! Relationships, relationships, relationships. Build them.
balance of confidence & humility
They need to observe & help further connections (by providing resources) that someone might not already know of.
A2: They care more about respect than being liked. Integrity. Strong work ethic. More action than talking.
A2) Confidence to try knew ideas - openness to feedback, being reflective on your lesson, trusted by others to encourage them
Wow- I just used this quote with my Leadership Council today to introduce their role as "Learning Leaders"
A2 willingness to try, desire to work with/help others, share ideas, energy, enthusiasm, love your job, and being happy!
absolutely, Jeff. So important to stay humble, to be a learner alongside colleagues/while coaching colleagues
A2 T leader must be a learner who embraces a growth mindset. Passionate & focused. Like says "On purpose"
A2: Teacher leader change agents need to believe the best in all students & colleagues and never stop learning.
A2: positive thinking, growth mind & body-set, asker of great questions, active listener, selfless, humble, and risk-taker
you ARE and you model all of those things
A2: communication, passion, leadership, drive, willingness to change and take constructive criticism/feedback
A2 TLs need a growth mindset and a clear understanding of their impact. A believe they can truly help ALL helps too...
Yes, the quote speaks volumes about inspiring others
A2: Commitment to teaching & learning & growth; passion for equity, & love for all kids; embraces change; collaborates
A2 willingness to fail and trust their students
A2: Attributes= student-centered, risk taker, professional, collaborative, solutions oriented, innovative, model/mentor
A2 TLs need a growth mindset and a clear understanding of their impact. A belief they can truly help ALL helps too...
Right on! https://t.co/MYMj7z97Rn
A2: Commitment to teaching & learning & growth; passion for equity, & love for all kids; embraces change; collaborates
Hey, thanks! I try my best. Need to walk the talk & model what you hope to see from others.
A2: Sometimes a potential teacher leader needs to find inspiration beyond walls of the school to invigorate colleagues
I want to posterize your response. Yes!
A2 T Leaders look at the potential &possibilities instead of roadblocks & challenges. Positive presence in face of negativity
Great minds always end up in a good chat right?:)
Good evening,
A2) Empathy is a non-negotiable.
Strength scout..merchant of hope ❤ https://t.co/aNQloaqtRt
Q2 What are necessary attributes of teacher leader change agents?
I love this quote; it's always in my training too!
welcome, amiga. YESSS. Empathy is a super-strength
A2 To create change T leaders have to b persistent, patient-above all, need 2 LISTEN in order 2 find realistic path forward
A2: Passionate about getting up on the floor of failure. Building radiator.
a2: be willing to take risks w/o playing it safe, so u can share w/ others who may be more hesitant at first
Wondering what it means to be a White House Guest in terms of leadership per your profile
BAMM and never stop learning about building a culture of learning. What works and what works best. https://t.co/awDXWcScjE
A2: Teacher leader change agents need to believe the best in all students & colleagues and never stop learning.
I agree listening is so important.
we talk about being open to failure and the truth is that it's very difficult. Youre so right
We're having a great conversation on right NOW.
Q3 TLeaders understand that we can't be passive recipients of 'reform' & change in edu.
How do TLs impact teaching practices?
A2: Determination not to give up when you know your path is in the best interest of students, colleagues, etc
Fearless teaching! https://t.co/48nrvjo8PT
Wondering what it means to be a White House Guest in terms of leadership per your profile
The cognitive coach in me loves your mention of asking great Qs and active listening! https://t.co/32Blbpoke4
A2: positive thinking, growth mind & body-set, asker of great questions, active listener, selfless, humble, and risk-taker
a true teacher leader has to trust their students to be able to try something new
A2) A willingness to learn and grow. Challenge the odds and status quo.
A2 Teacher leader change agents have to find joy in the unknown, the uncertain & have boundless curiosity-roam the unknown
TLeaders encourage other teachers to change.
A3) By modeling best practices and professionalism
A3: Have your teaching practices be research based and data-driven
A3: by being leaders of change. By trying out new techniques. Taking risks with new concepts/strategies.
Practice what you preach! Model it, share it, & invite others to question it! Be constantly evolving!
This is where Twitter can play an integral role...inspiration is flowing everyday in my https://t.co/KIt6QVyIgi
A2: Sometimes a potential teacher leader needs to find inspiration beyond walls of the school to invigorate colleagues
"Being the change" right?
A3 articulating ideas by backing it up with research. Remembering that every # stat is attached to a person (Ss)
A3: By risking it all. Not being pessimistic; that's what it takes. Our passions will only turn into actions via selflessness
A3) TL are constant learners - research/study new techniques/ideas to try in their classroom & reflect & improve their skill
you're both touching on Q5, smart ladies! lol.
A3 you have to realize that the classroom is always in alpha stage. Be willing to lead by example
A3: They wear so many hats, they always have a voice in changes that will happen in their school cultures.
Q3 teacher leaders are always reflecting on their practice and measuring impact on student learning
Thank u! Great response, Jim.
A3 TRY. Discuss. Keep current. Ask ?'s. Be supportive. Listen listen listen
TY for stopping by and supporting my guest-mod on
A3 - sharing with being HONEST along the way . If we are critical of something there's no need to be a blind follower,
A3: TL's value every second or idea. Master of their craft. True practitioners driven to advance explosive learning.
A3 Teacher Leaders impact instructional practices by making best choices 4 their Ss based on what they know about their Ss.
A3 A teacher leader has to be willing to be a model for the rest of the school. Let others see your classroom
Oops! You know I love my chats!
A3: Lead by example, coach colleagues, get involved in professional & state organizations
indeed...a cycle of teaching and learning. https://t.co/nzGnZkHRfJ
Q3 teacher leaders are always reflecting on their practice and measuring impact on student learning
A2 Enthusiasm, tenacity, thick skin :)
We can have an entire conversation about asking the right questions. I agree with you, Kathi https://t.co/zpc6o1XRRN
A3 TRY. Discuss. Keep current. Ask ?'s. Be supportive. Listen listen listen
A3: Be looking for new ways to reach Ss and sharing with colleagues. Do not be afraid to try new things or admit failure.
A3 also a TL knows that they are not the source of knowledge and let's the students lead the class
have that teflon suit handy
A3: Be proactive in adjusting curriculum & understand curriculum works on many levels & isn't static
Very important that it's researched based - not just their opinions & supported w/ data https://t.co/kl0mr17jzl
A3: Have your teaching practices be research based and data-driven
A3: Case in point, tried something new today, and it was an EPIC failure. I tried and it made for a great teachable moment.
Q3 teacher leaders know that to help people think better they dont tell them what to do!
A3: TL's see learning as building wide blessing not solely for Ss. Everyone in the building is a candidate for learning.
A3: Speaking up! While being focused on students, solutions, best practices and professionalism.
A2 TLs need to put students first with empathy, initiative, collaboration, communication, growth mindset & high expectations
how should we handle those that don't want the support from teacher leaders/coaches?
Q4 Teacher leaders lead by example and mentorship. What do you seek from a teacher mentor?
I tell my students we are beta-testers and then ask for their feedback!
Getting teacher leaders to recognize power of research-based evidence is critical to persuading others
TL is someone who is willing to fail and if you are trying something new can it be research-based
A3: It was funny. The Ss were really sweet. One actually said, "Like you said, we all make mistakes. Don't give up."
A4 teacher leaders bring back the focus: why are we here?
Depends on if they were warmly welcomed in a
A4 To listen and support. Give ideas and strategies he/she can use.
A4 a listening ear and constructive comments
A4: Teacher mentors need to be inspirational, have a wide knowledge base, & be supportive
A4 someone who gets excited about new things, encourages me, supports me thru tough times, loves what they do, lets me try
If there is no research on it, data plays a critical role The data needs to support your actions
Serious discussion & feedback is needed
A4: someone who is going to impart wisdom, share thoughts, guide me through a process to make me a better leader.
A3: Be daring. Be bold. Try new things. Have a strong support system. Be content but always strive for better.
A4: Teacher mentors should encourage, talk through ideas, and push others towards best practices
Beta-testers-I'll have to say that next time. Thanks!
A4 I am a teacher mentor. I look forward to seeing your responses!
Amazing how much a graphic as opposed to 140-character tweet conveys. TY
A4-one who sees & considers the whole package - not just u as a "teacher" -but a whole person w/ conflicting responsibilities
I think and would agree with you. It's all about the "WHY" https://t.co/BRCZMQwwO4
A4 teacher leaders bring back the focus: why are we here?
I think you can also take risks on new ideas in research
Given you're a teacher mentor, what do you consider your strengths?
A4: Someone smarter than me. Listens to me and gives me helpful feedback to make me better. Their actions exceed their words
try new ideas to gather data. A TL is someone who is into action research
A4 T mentors have to be positive & selfless. Dedicated to constant growth & strengthening the profession. Learn with novice T
smarter than you? that's a tall order, friend ;)
I agree the mentor needs to get to know the whole person.
Be a good listener/hear what hasn't been said. Be observant, find constructive ways to help someone without blame
vulnerability is necessary. Empathy and vulnerability in our work with others
A3 high expectations, learning goals, success criteria, descriptive feedback, authentic tasks, critical thinking skills
But the coach, the team has to be the right fit
there are very few better than Shana
A4 TLs/Mentors are self-reflective and help others remember WHY we do what we do.
I'm glad:)..it's a good visual of the topic.
A4 teacher mentors foster conditions so that teachers Canada be bold
A4: Eager to take risks and to explain why those risks are taken and if they were productive
prefer smarter. Experience doesn't always equate to someone being a good mentor.
Yes during their action research they will bereflective & want data to support what they are doing
A4 teacher mentors foster the conditions for other teachers to be bold
The coach and the team need to be a good fit
Q5 What can the teacher leader do to seek professional growth and empowerment (for self)?
you are way too kind...yes. You are one of them. 😀
A3) We model. We advocate. We adopt. We acquire. We perfect. https://t.co/llvZDtqtii
Q3 TLeaders understand that we can't be passive recipients of 'reform' & change in edu.
How do TLs impact teaching practices?
it is what you do with the experience that makes you great
awww...thanks Nathan...you are too kind. 😀
A5 Twitter chats! like or really any way they best form & interact w/ a strong https://t.co/HK8GS67YNm
Q5 What can the teacher leader do to seek professional growth and empowerment (for self)?
A4 seek to know thy impact. Purposeful planning, what does a years growth look like for my students, how do we measure it?
A4 a mentor builds capacity & sometimes they just listen when things get tough. Know when to listen & when to offer advise
A4: Teacher mentor is not just a job title. A teacher mentor can theoretically be any leader willing to guide other teachers
Need to go but thought many of you might appreciate this take on rewards & consequences. Thanks! https://t.co/mMe1FIW4zA
A5 try activities that the final direction is unknown. Make yourself a co-learner
A4: Great teacher mentors learn from the people they mentor
A5-conferences,classes, connect with others & read books! A "sick day"used once & a while to recharge might not hurt either !
A5) Stay connected to those practices that foster edu life. Manifest excellence as minimum standard. https://t.co/JJV3HvmTXN
Q5 What can the teacher leader do to seek professional growth and empowerment (for self)?
The TLeader can learn new things from the new teacher.
A4: I just wanted the person to be a sympathetic listener, and if needed, a good problem-solver. Help me see what I couldn't.
That's right. Learning works both ways! https://t.co/LsXattsn0V
The TLeader can learn new things from the new teacher.
A5: Build their PLN...it will grow you, nourish you and you will blossom. TL will reap so many benefits from Twitter
A5 increase , look for opps to grow, step out of ur comfort zone, ask others what they are learning/are excited about
A5: Select what conferences to attend carefully, avail oneself of online learning such as Twitter, take specific courses
Develop a passion project that excites you and makes you seek out more knowledge & connections. "Research is Me Search"
A5 present on what you are doing. Sharing knowledge helps you reflect
A5: Seek out PD opportunities. Ask an admin to mentor them on various opportunities. Ask to see the admin process.
A5) Collaborate & discuss ideas with others. Be open to feedback & transparent of what you are doing, why, & your struggles
A5 Chats like and have helped me grow as a leader, a teacher, a learner!
A5: Talk to people you know & talk to people you don't. Ts want help you grow - take the opportunities
A5: Present at conferences and join colleagues at conferences as co-presenters
A5: TL needs to keep reading and growing. Look out for new resources, like Twitter and educamps.
interesting. I had a mentor who had less experience than me but they were great. Experience not end all be all
I was a visitor during the White House National Science Fair. https://t.co/4xmgpSQ6U8
So are you actually a visitor this year in the White House?
Absolutely, know your strengths and set goals for growth, no matter your position
A5 teacher leaders first understand that growth must be self directed second by interacting with peers
A5 host become someone who shares
Couldn't say it any better! https://t.co/iDvZwlulfY
A5: Build their PLN...it will grow you, nourish you and you will blossom. TL will reap so many benefits from Twitter
A5 TLs don't look to be validated by others. Have a cause greater than themselves- prof. growth & bringing it for their Ss
Lots of debate over 'smart' or 'experienced' ...keep in mind that teaching is a skill set that requires 'smart'.
A5) Build your PLN - read, discuss, go to edCamps, Twitter chats & spread the word every chance you get
sometimes we have to change our lens to be better
Your graphics tonight have been excellent contributions to .
https://t.co/M8sbTEcGO4
A5 Understanding my biases has allowed me to gain greater clarity on where I need to grow as a teacher and mentor
A5: Let your passion & purpose guide you to your tribe...they are waiting for you:)
A5: Read. Connect. Attend conferences. Present. Collaborate their building and outside their 4 walls. Always seek growth.
Sorry gotta jump over and get ready to moderate chat. Come join me at top of the hour! Topic: Social Media in Edu.
But if only we could get Teacher Leaders on to Twitter as a professional growth tool
Thank you! This chat is inspiring me!
A5 working with districts on implementing 6 tier pyramid of support for teachers
Q6 What can admins/principals do to support the teacher leader in realizing his/her potential as an agent of (teaching)change?
We need to be open to hear other people's thoughts - even when they make you uncomfortable or you disagree will help us grow
I've attended conferences vicariously thru Twitter by following event hashtag & connecting w/ ppl https://t.co/E51aBQtslx
A5: Select what conferences to attend carefully, avail oneself of online learning such as Twitter, take specific courses
Agreed, Passion, Purpose, and Action. https://t.co/bwOnlZcZVW
A5: Let your passion & purpose guide you to your tribe...they are waiting for you:)
A6: Working with an AWESOME admin team this year. They are open to hearing new ideas and welcome feedback.
A6 use them as a model. Encourage other teachers to visit their rooms
A6: Allow teacher leaders freedom, funding to meet w/ others beyond walls of school, & provide time for sharing
A6 first and foremost by recognizing and celebrating their expertise by sharing it with whole district
A6 speak a vision on T to build capacity. Promote risks & failure is part of learning. Push outside of comfort zone.
A6 when they ask for a little funding try to support them
Let TLs do their thing! We tend to gravitate where there is need, opportunity, and growth in common goals!
A5: All TL need to remain focused on purpose and intent. Those two things should never get lost in the growing process.
So many excellent ideas/resources shared on tonight, so know I will tweet out an archive later tonight.
Thank you for the awesome chats tonight! I love my learning community & :o)
A6) Embrace collective expertise! Value cerebral energy outside the "admin team" https://t.co/4SrOG3F5ge
Q6 What can admins/principals do to support the teacher leader in realizing his/her potential as an agent of (teaching)change?
A6 creating opportunities to share in school and across schools
Wow, you've done a lot of multitasking. Were you using Tweetdeck?
A6- support the risks they want to take without Installing fear of what happens if their idea fails
A6: Allow them room to grow. Understand not everyone is/wants to be a TL. Support, challenge & empower those who want to lead
thank you for joining us, Julie!
A6 also, praise is wonderful
I presented a Twitter challenge to Ts at my school past 2 years. District is next. Slow and steady
A6 Admins have to let TLs know that what they do is noticed & appreciated. Then get out of the way to support & celebrate!
Hoping you've had success and can share somehow what you've done
What an incredible conversation! TY for joining me and TY for having me as guest moderator tonight. I loved it!
A6: Admin/principals can start by building relationships with TL that cultivate conversations, growth, questions.,leadership
thank you Rosa for a great chat take care
A5) Attend conferences - and the sessions! Don't just stay for 10 min and head down to the Starbucks :D
