#iaedchat Archive
Run by Iowa educators, #IAedchat is on Twitter the first, second, and third Sundays each month at 8:00pm CST. We have added #IAedchat LIVE to the fourth Sunday of the month at 8:00pm CST. This will take place in Google Hangout on Air. We will share the invitation and link to #IAedchat LIVE each month.
Sunday March 6, 2016
Good evening & welcome everyone! My tweets for the next hour are dedicated to
Good evening & welcome everyone! I’m excited about the next hour of learning on !
Our topic tonight is “Roles and Responsibilities of Teacher Leaders”
There are so many good schools, but how do we make them great?! Join in 1 hour.
Our topic tonight is “Roles and Responsibilities of Teacher Leaders”
Colin Wikan...Dean of Students at Bett HS in Bettendorf IA. Looking forward to tonights chat!
Your co-moderators for tonight’s are and
Your co-moderators for tonight’s are and
Greetings all! Ben Feight 4th grade, Mason City, IA
Take a moment to introduce yourself, your role in schools, and where you are tweeting from tonight.
Great to see you, Ben. Thank you for being here.
Greetings and good evening friends!
Kim Tech. Integration Lead Teacher - Davenport North HS glad to be here!
Hey everyone! I am a 2nd grade teacher from Pocahontas, Iowa
Welcome, Kim. Thank you for being with us this evening.
Emily, 4th grade, Lexington SC
Jake - principal, Katy, TX
Joel Pedersen supt SE Iowa
Glad to be here! Always gets me excited for the coming week!
Skipping Walking Dead to join tonight! Intructional Coach, Benton Community.
Anna - Teacher Excited to hear about teacher leadership in other districts!
Hello ! Going to try and balance learning w/ you all, contributing, & working on report card comments! Kim-Kindergarten
Good evening
Jillian, Magnet Coordinator/Facilitator from Cedar Rapids
Good evening, Alexis. We're looking forward to a great chat!
I’m Andrea - Teacher Leader (PD Leader & Instructional Coach) at Benton CSD. It’s a pleasure to learn with you tonight on .
Matt from TX. Elementary principal by day & husband/father always. can I pull off all 3 chats?
Heather, 5th grade teacher; Cresco next year Instructional Coach
Jay, principal from Merton, WI joining into .
Good evening! Megan Jack, Instructional Coach, West Delaware.
Good evening all! Darin, 6th/8th grade RLA teacher, model teacher form Northeast Iowa! :)
Looking forward to joining my first live !
Patrick, 4th Grade teacher at Maple Grove Elementary (Waukee, IA)
Looking forward to learning!
Greetings everyone! Currently 3rd grade teacher transitioning to instructional coach for next year.
Susan from Pocahontas Area - Technology Integrationist -
Hello, Erin, instructional tech with
Good evening, , Dan Butler, elementary principal of and in Western Dubuque.
Hello Bridget Visser - Elementary Literacy Specialist joining from TX.
Maranda from WV. Middle school ELA teacher
Chris, Secondary Principal
Lisa, Dir of Tech from Kansas looking forward to talk about teacher leaders.
Welcome, Chris. Thank you for being here!
Nathan Kleinmeyer, 8th American History in Plattsmouth, NE.
Ted, Middle School Principal from MO joining in for
Thank you for joining in! Excited to have you on https://t.co/VSANoOxxFm
Looking forward to joining my first live !
Thank you for being here, Lisa. Great to see you!
Forgot to tell who I am! 4th Grade Teacher, Cedar Rapids
Doug,HS Science Wilton Ia,
Kelly, first year Ins. Coach, Central DeWitt
Good evening ! Todd, elem principal in CA! Great way to gear up for the week ahead!
Hi Bridget! Nice to see you here!
My man! Welcome to the midwest!
Michael, elementary AP from North Scott.
We have a great group of educators on this eveninng. We are going to get started with Q1 in a minute!
Thrilled to be joining for tonight's discussion with so many amazing edu!
Thank you for being here, Doug!
Hello Tim from Iowa City, Theology, Computer Science, College and Careers Teacher.
Anne, HS Art Teacher from Washington, IA
Thanks for joining us tonight!
Hello! Susan, first year instructional coach from Central DeWitt.
Hello Everyone! Kara Paulson from Wallace Elementary 2nd Grade (Johnston, IA) ❤️📚
Thank you for being with us tonight, Susan.
Hi Kara! We appreciate you being here!
Thanks! Good to start to "see" some educators I have met in the past few months on tonights chat!
Hi all. Kim from Spirit Lake. HS English. Instructional Coach-to-be next year.
Q1: What does Teacher Leadership look like in your district?
Scot Surprenant Instructional Technology Coordinator Des Moines Public Schools, and a UNI Panther fan!
Good to see you again, Scot. You are becoming a regular!
Jesse Myers, elem sped now...6-12 instructional strategist next year
A1. Teacher voice as integral part of the decision making process.
Brett from Oskaloosa 6th Grade Lurking while wife is getting ready to take 10 MS and HS S to China.
My first job many many moons ago was 2nd grade at Wallace. Only stayed one year then moved!
And how 'bout those Panthers??!?
Welcome, Tim. We appreciate you being here this evening.
A1: teacher leadership looks like empowerment. Makes decisions in best interest of Ss w/o seeking permission & encourages others
A1: Forward thinking teachers - advocates for change
Hi friends! What a beautiful Sunday! Shaelynn from Conrad!
A1: With the TLC Grant in IA, teacher leadership is abundant. The transition to PLC's has also allowed for more teacher leadership
A1: Our teacher leadership structure is in 3 Tiers: ICs, mentor/model Ts, and PD facilitators. Huge in our professional growth.
A1 We will be implementing TLC next year, but currently have teacher leaders on DLT and mentors.
Follow our team!
from include
A1: 100% teacher run professional development. Support to from
Teacher leadership is evolving. Looking forward to contributing more next year.
thanks...excited and nervous
A1: Teachers serving teachers serving students. We all work better together.
A1: For me, teacher leadership is giving voice and purpose to the vision of the school...giving opportunity to be innovative!
A1. Not only serving on or leading out committees, but sharing in the decision process.
A1 Ts play a role in curriculum dev., assessment & hiring (school-wise).
A1: Teachers using their gifts and strengths to carry out the districts mission and vision while helping others along the way.
A1: Instructional coaches, content leaders @ secondary level, teacher leaders (model classrooms), mentors
A1: TLC grant in CRCSD. Many in those roles have just come from the classroom. Better dialogue with administration.
A1: Brainstorming, looking for answers for individual students. Takes a village to teach a child!
A1: 1st year TLC. We have cohort of Model teachers working on getting all of the teachers comfortable with classroom visits
A1: Everyone working towards a common goal, People willing to change, frustrated with the status quo if it's bad for kids.
A1: 6 instructional coaches, 18 PD facilitators, 12 model teachers. All teachers automatically enrolled/paired with a coach
A1: TL is the voice of our staff to our administration. TL group is the middle man for ideas, training and everything in between
So glad to see you again, Scot!
A1: Teachers supporting each other for continuous growth and development- helping build capacity in our system.
A1: We have model and mentor teachers, along with instructional coaches all through our TLC grant.
So many thoughts about teacher choice, voice and empowerment. The state of Iowa is in good hands. Great stuff!
A1b: Teacher leaders are in charge of the learning...leading PD cohorts, sharing best practices through Twitter...
Agree with you and allowing innovation without fear.
A1: looks a little diff in each district, but basically-an instructional leader working w/ team-helping w/ PD, supporting growth.
A1: Another important component to T leadership is their social status as well, they can get others to follow, needs to positive
Q1: IC's, mentor teachers, model teachers, and team leaders. Intertwined responsibility and improved communication.
A1: Ts support each other continuously regardless of their role...will have "official" teacher leaders hired next year.
Good Evening Henry HS Principal from MA joining in late
A1: Davenport - Lead Ts, Tech. Integration Ts, mentor Ts, math & read coaches at elementary & middle.
A1 =a group of teachers looking to try new things & serve others on their journey to provide S opp. https://t.co/zqR9iZnabP
Q1: What does Teacher Leadership look like in your district?
Q1 Teacher leaders: change agents that will amplify transformation
Welcome back, Henry. Always good to see you on
A1.2: All of it focusing on continuous improvement of everyone.
Visiting other classrooms -- a must! https://t.co/it07jVjsl8
A1: 1st year TLC. We have cohort of Model teachers working on getting all of the teachers comfortable with classroom visits
A1: One of our Tr leaders works with two Ts in two different schools. Allows a lot more brainstorming between schools!
Thanks Dan! Great to be hear
Think that is a common model in our area.Interesting to see how that helps w/ transition & growth of TLC. https://t.co/xZCSOiZ7Hm
A1 We will be implementing TLC next year, but currently have teacher leaders on DLT and mentors.
A1: all staff need to remember "You Don't Need a Title to Be a Leader". Leaders lead regardless!
A1: Officially its a tool for top down communication. Unofficially, its teachers not afraid of risk, who share what they learn.
A1: Forgot the Models too!
We're off to a great start on this evening. Q2 is coming right up!
we are all teacher leaders "official or not". Within our staff lies the growth and change!
A1. We have no grant, and no way to become a leader. outside experts are valued. PD is directed every week for 90 min.
A1. Teachers interested in becoming Admin can apply to be part of Admin LEAP initiative.
A1 Each district has their unique TL processes. TL are doing cycles, meeting in PLC, assisting w/PD.
A1: Teacher leaders share their great practices with other teachers
Automatically paired vs. teacher choice... interesting! https://t.co/menkpdCOVs
A1: 6 instructional coaches, 18 PD facilitators, 12 model teachers. All teachers automatically enrolled/paired with a coach
A1 Once we get the classroom visits started then we can start having conversations about engagement & student learning
A1 Building leadership teams, curriculum teams, RtI teams, PBIS teams. All teachers are leaders. https://t.co/9HfIbgpEKB
Q1: What does Teacher Leadership look like in your district?
A1- our inst. team is diverse w/talents:strengths-flexibility, leading ?s & positive attitudes
Q1 Transforming learning MUST include system thinking/structure from outside education.
Talking about Teacher leadership on
Q2: What are the foundational elements that must be in place to sustain teacher leadership?
A1: Don't need the TLC money. Just need to think differently to meet the needs of Ss. That is a Teacher Leader.
Leadership is not a position, it is action! https://t.co/dW8nAEUU5u
A1: all staff need to remember "You Don't Need a Title to Be a Leader". Leaders lead regardless!
A1: So many great models of TLC in the AEA267 districts I serve! Learning from and
A2 Admin willing to listen, be wrong, and not have all the right answers. Or the only answers. https://t.co/lSGy0NoDb7
Q2: What are the foundational elements that must be in place to sustain teacher leadership?
A2 A clear vision/mission developed by all (admin, TL & Ts) to build a community of taking risks, learning and growing.
A2: Risk should be valued. Trying something new without fear of failing.
A2: Shared vision, defined priorities.
A2 Trust, communication, growth mindset.
A2: Time, Admin support, teachers believing in the system
A2: Ts relationships with each other is vital! Also making sure everyone understands it's not evaluative. https://t.co/XKUAxYf3ky
Q2: What are the foundational elements that must be in place to sustain teacher leadership?
Love this!
I agree -- title not needed in order to be a change agent! https://t.co/6xXI9JbANP
A1: all staff need to remember "You Don't Need a Title to Be a Leader". Leaders lead regardless!
Jumping in late- Heather Lightfoot, 7-12 Principal, English Valleys CSD, North English, Iowa
A2: Trust must be present for the model to succeed.
A2: Relationship building is key to the success of TL.
A2: A foundation of:
asking questions
giving support
sharing successes
sharing stuggles
leading with yes
A2: High levels of trust, communication and follow-through are musts to get most out of teacher leadership. Find common ground.
A2. Give Ts the ability to present at conferences, value their research/expertise, let them develop professionally
A2-Building relationships & trust are huge. Also -- TL must remember what it’s like to be a teacher in the classroom.
A2: Professional trust. Growth culture.
A2: Teacher leaders need time and opportunities to observe their colleagues and willingness to open their classroom to others
We should be able to model this for our Ss as well in our leadership as teachers!
A2: An admin team that gives opportunity to lead & supports those attempting to lead. Failure is also encouraged along the way.
A2: Relationships. A culture of collaboration. A clearly communicated vision. Goals and indicators of success along the way.
A2: Teacher leaders need to feel supported in their personal professional learning
is ROCKING tonight already!
A1 Year 1 focus: relationship building, creating culture of collaboration, establishing coaching framework, support PD teams,
A2. admin must be willing to accept the teacher voice in leadership roles.
A2: IC building trust and relationship with T's
A2 Provide pressure to DO and support to get "it" DONE!
A2: and dialogue along w/flexibility and willingness to get their hands dirty risks & share failures & joys
Q2 Foundation has to be of common goals, trust and desire to improve. Buy-in is must
A2: voice and choice to meet the differentiated needs of teachers just like our Ss.
A2 I think beyond admin support from dist coordinators helps and also PD to support leaders learning https://t.co/tKAKLtKwQI
Q2: What are the foundational elements that must be in place to sustain teacher leadership?
A2: ldrs can be taken advantage of. Ldrs must be supported, be listened to & followed up with. Be sure their plates are balanced
A2 A clear understanding of facilitating adult learning is also essential for TL.
A2:Need to establish a culture that welcomes collaboration and willingness to listen to one another. Not to see change as a threat
A2: A clear common goal, voice, trust, desire to improve.
A2: trust, open communication, a "can do" positive attitude are all important elements
A2. Need to have protocols in place to help teacher to be successful in the role.
A2: All Ts need to be open to new learning regardless of who is giving the ideas..peer, TL, AEA consultant, admin, or anyone else
An open classroom leads to great discoveries and collaboration!
Q2: Administrative modeling, trust, and relationships. A culture of support.
This is definitely a key ingredient https://t.co/IdJn3Mv1g9
A2: Teacher leaders need to feel supported in their personal professional learning
A2: Clear mission, trust, teacher choice & voice and growth mindset- there must be a will/desire to grow.
A2 open dialogue & reflection from all, trust & solid relationship to move forward & not just be an phase https://t.co/rCOaUNZnmG
Q2: What are the foundational elements that must be in place to sustain teacher leadership?
A2: Opportunity for personalized professional development, time to share with peers & ability to initiate change.
Taking risks is a very important piece of leadership. Fail forward! https://t.co/63WJnZIxnA
A2: Risk should be valued. Trying something new without fear of failing.
As dist just talked about this on Fri clear common goals and how to measure, also about common lang too https://t.co/dzSDubc5Ux
A2: A clear common goal, voice, trust, desire to improve.
A2: Trust is a huge thing. Trust between admin & teachers and trust from teacher to teacher.
A2: Time...
Time to explore
Time to develop relationships
Time to check in
Time to reflect
Time to ask questions...
A2 - Teachers Leaders have to build a rapport and trust with the staff. So important.
Agreed and I would add Protocols with flexibility to innovate.
I couldn't agree with you more https://t.co/PdoKdvTl8I
A2. Need to have protocols in place to help teacher to be successful in the role.
A2: Culture that supports growth, vision is shared & supported. Making better/awesome student learning, experience at center
Trust, consensus, no "gotcha's"...
I agree, time to share is HUGE! https://t.co/eVhAnHpBFx
A2: Opportunity for personalized professional development, time to share with peers & ability to initiate change.
A2 Trusting relationships w/Ts, reflective dialogue techniques, listening, and not having a hidden agenda!
True! This can be a challenge to accomplish. What do you do to motivate others to continue learning? https://t.co/pIAP59iIwE
A2: All Ts need to be open to new learning regardless of who is giving the ideas..peer, TL, AEA consultant, admin, or anyone else
Trust, communication, risk taking, getting a little bit better every day. Excellent characteristics of teacher leaders.
A2 - BUILDING RELATIONSHIPS seems like a common theme!
A2. Front loaded and ongoing professional development. Structure to allow teacher leaders to use and showcase unique skills.
Hearing a lot about trust...so important!
A2: Trust, support, freedom, resources, goals & a plan
Agreed with personalized! Ts will respond and accept more change with options.
Patience, persistence, trust, relationships, support, networking opportunities
Q3 is coming up in one minute!
Keep seeing the word TRUST and RELATIONSHIPS so true when teacher/collaborating w/ everyone in education
And a balance with standardized (district & school level) and personalized (teacher passion/interest driven.
Agreed! Administrator support and modeling is critical to success!
YES! PD has to be ongoing if it is going to really affect growth and change!
Common vision is important. Must be working for the same goal! https://t.co/tZxKu9SdJd
Q2 Foundation has to be of common goals, trust and desire to improve. Buy-in is must
A2: Teacher input and then a plan of action that includes that input in a meaningful way.
A2: Also a platform to share
Q3: Share an example of how teacher leadership is impacting your district.
when Ts talk to me about upcoming changes in the district I always keep a positive attitude and express my excitement
Passion/Interest driven is HUGE!
https://t.co/2AUidZ6mnM
And a balance with standardized (district & school level) and personalized (teacher passion/interest driven.
A2 Admin needs to fully understand coaching and actually works as a coach themselves to help Ts grow.
A3 Teachers are leading our wellness initiative and continuous implementation of PBIS. https://t.co/WrhSAmcevg
Q3: Share an example of how teacher leadership is impacting your district.
Teachers have to feel comfortable to be vulnerable & take risks! When they feel supported & appreciated they'll buy in
It is my belief that a strong bond between the principal and coach has a direct impact on S achievement. https://t.co/fLdcJHbJNt
A2 Admin needs to fully understand coaching and actually works as a coach themselves to help Ts grow.
A3: Using social media to share best practices...it's changing the conversation around the staff lounge!
A3 Ts leadership helping with large dist PLCs guiding curriculum change for creating goals/scales for SRG
A3- Ts have a voice! Our PD has transformed to more differentiation that meets teachers’ and teams’ needs.
A3 Ts are now in Instructional Coach positions on each campus. They model teach and coach. Critical assets. T leadership SUPREME!
A3: Teacher leadership is allowing teacher voice, choice and more personalized learning which ultimately helps kids.
definitely need a balance! Standardized is important for common goals within district/building!
A3: Impact on students and school systems is dependent on compassionate, focused teachers.
Q3: More collaboration between schools. 1st year Ts encouraged to share their ideas. Working together, regardless of position
Stronger teacher voice. Silos are opening, conversations are improving. Teachers own the work.
A3: Rounds of peer coaching allowing Ts to grow and learn together.
A3: Great Ts giving Ss a voice through collaborative blogs.
good communication skills and enthusiasm
A3: Our teachers are entirely in charge of our School Tactic improvement Plan. From sessions to half day break out sessions. 👍
A3- Weekly observations/co-plannings are providing time to reflect and support to act on changes in instruction or next steps.
A3.2: Our ICs are engaging Ts in new strategies and encouraging risks that have never been taken before. Flipped learning, etc.
A3: Our TL group is currently exploring the needs of our Ts and will create PD based on our needs and wants Possible edcamp format
A2: All are in support of growth-not evaluative,not punitive,not condescending but uplifting,inspirational-for greater edu good.
A3. Teachers are leading out District and building-level PD.
Sharing what we're doing is important. Community of learners where we learn from each other! https://t.co/5FaSOJ9cyG
A3: Using social media to share best practices...it's changing the conversation around the staff lounge!
Add in space and time with this and you are truly building a pathway to blended lrn/personalization https://t.co/c6a7zXYQSW
A3: Teacher leadership is allowing teacher voice, choice and more personalized learning which ultimately helps kids.
A3: Teacher leadership is leading a school succeeding at narrowing achievement gaps and raising expectations
A3: teacher Guided Reading Google Community & Teacher advisory groups leading consistent change with instruction
A3 more professional talk at school which has made me 10x more reflective in my own practices https://t.co/bYWftK8zhU
Q3: Share an example of how teacher leadership is impacting your district.
A3: Changing our focus from my Ss in my classroom to OUR Ss in OUR district...how can we collaborate to do whats best for kids
A3: Too many benefits to count! My students WIN when I work with our IC .
This makes a huge difference. Ts must be given voice and choice! https://t.co/wTE3xydJKf
A3: Teacher leadership is allowing teacher voice, choice and more personalized learning which ultimately helps kids.
A3. 16-17 year 1 TLS. Newly hired teacher leaders helping others become more comfortable with the process.
A3. Teachers leading out building level committees.
We are all a team. No titles... T's, S's, admin... Unless an administrative issue needs to be addressed....
A3: We are still in the planning phases of the TLC grant, but we currently have curriculum teams that meet periodically.
A3 Teacher leaders provide open and honest communication among staff throughout the district. Rewarding to work collaboratively.
A3: Ts are learning new strategies and leaving their comfort zone!
A3 Our leaders are allowing T's the ability to ask ? w/out feeling judged & support to try new practices 2 build Ss success
I think the root cause of school system "problems" is too many directions (visions/goals) for
Reflection happens in many ways. It’s an important piece to staying current! https://t.co/9UMWX0Y2ZN
A3 more professional talk at school which has made me 10x more reflective in my own practices https://t.co/bYWftK8zhU
Q3: Share an example of how teacher leadership is impacting your district.
They will need to read and my upcoming book on how Principals can where a coaching hat
Absolutely! We can't always get into each other's classrooms..Twitter allows a glimpse of the awesome happening daily!
A3: More teachers collaborating through blended learning lessons
Teacher Leaders help to create a stronger collaboration network among all & make us all stronger https://t.co/4mEePG2I5D
A3: Teachers are organizing "pedagogical coffee clubs" that go on in the evenings and weekends
When I do coaching training it is essential that admin are there the full time. We build principal/coach agreements
Personalized, on-demand professional learning is what it's all about!
A3: Our model Ts have days where teachers come to observe or are they available for other Ts to learn from about specific topics.
A3: We feel how valued we are by our dist. by their support/trust in our risk taking & it encourages more Ts to try new things!
Q3: Tr Leaders also asking Student Ldrs their ideas on how to move school forward.
This sounds pretty awesome. https://t.co/05kCaXZHLB
A3: Our model Ts have days where teachers come to observe or are they available for other Ts to learn from about specific topics.
A3: Making an awesome (and FREE) full day technology PD available to area districts!
A3.1 TLs are creating new innovative courses
A3 All teachers, all content areas have the opportunity to collaborate to improve student learning.
Risks are now exciting. Teachers feel supported and validated. Teacher isolation is diminishing.
Tell us more about these. https://t.co/bWas2KptGi
A3: Teachers are organizing "pedagogical coffee clubs" that go on in the evenings and weekends
No matter the size of the district or the customers they serve this fits them all! Thanks for sharing https://t.co/fz7Md2xJU6
Such a powerful model that allows learning and sharing of best practices...love it!
Teachers need to be held accountable for lifelong learning Always striving to learn more!! https://t.co/N9IBposFNS
A3 more professional talk at school which has made me 10x more reflective in my own practices https://t.co/bYWftK8zhU
Q3: Share an example of how teacher leadership is impacting your district.
Hi just joined in from PNG. Tchr leadership allows teachers to be active in the Ss, school and their own transformation
not having a focus and purpose is a challenge for Ts just as it is for our Ss!
This chat is absolutely flying by! Q4 is coming up in one minute!
This is the real deal! I'm speaking from experience and does it right. https://t.co/ODmwZ74TPp
A3: Making an awesome (and FREE) full day technology PD available to area districts!
Great idea! Building relationships around sound instructional practices is wonderful! https://t.co/HQcq8u0kpv
A3: Teachers are organizing "pedagogical coffee clubs" that go on in the evenings and weekends
Do you have any private schools/Catholic schools that participate in training?
Q3. Tchr leadership builds sustainability and capacity for leading and learning
One of the things I ❤about what I get to do each day! https://t.co/5ukvlLBQX5
Personalized, on-demand professional learning is what it's all about!
A3.2 TL’s lead workshops on Cultural Proficiency that help to create a safer environment that engages in discussions on difference
A3. Department chairs participant in walkthroughs.
Q4: If you could change one thing within your teacher leadership system, please explain what it would be and why.
Exactly! Gives all involved a chance to learn from each other.
A3 I appreciate our district and school leaders use teachers who aren't labeled models as examples for new ideas
My training has been out-of-state, but I do have coaching training openings for this summer. https://t.co/2e4FrEV2B6
A4: That all teachers do not see themselves as leaders, YET! We all lead in many ways & it's together that we are better!
Jimmy, just read your blog after seeing Dan Butler tweet about it on - Wonderful words and inspiration - thank you!
A4: Sometimes, teachers don't realize they have something worth sharing...need to help them get over that mindset!
It couldn't work without support and trust of the teachers. They make it happen! https://t.co/86zMmpNyFH
A3: We feel how valued we are by our dist. by their support/trust in our risk taking & it encourages more Ts to try new things!
What a great outlook! I feel like all my teaching peers can show me something new each and every day!
A4: I would like to see more people step into a leadership role. Maybe mentor Ts rotate so everyone can experience leadership.
A4: I would love to create additional time for admin and teacher leaders across buildings to collaborate on improvement plans.
A4- Have a few Ts unwilling to take a chance with our system. Wish they’d give TL a chance to benefit them and Ss.
We all have a responsibility to lead and must be put in positions to showcase our strengths. https://t.co/3XDjXGORFc
A4: That all teachers do not see themselves as leaders, YET! We all lead in many ways & it's together that we are better!
Thanks, I will pass along to my admins 8-)
A4: make T ldrship more flexible allowing for ldrs to rotate in & out growing others & providing relief when needed. Grow other Ts
So very important! We spotlight all of our Ts who are doing great things in their classrooms. https://t.co/ZJp1qVMODi
A3 I appreciate our district and school leaders use teachers who aren't labeled models as examples for new ideas
this is great! We can learn something from all teachers! We need to make this attitude contagious
This gives me chills! https://t.co/p2IKntkZBi
Risks are now exciting. Teachers feel supported and validated. Teacher isolation is diminishing.
Capacity building cannot be underscored. https://t.co/uDdiUri2Us
A4: make T ldrship more flexible allowing for ldrs to rotate in & out growing others & providing relief when needed. Grow other Ts
A4: I wish we could've all been together as one whole district when the ICs were announced. Would felt more like we are 1 in this
Its in the informal. Teachers pick a theme, prepare invitation and the sharing takes place at a local coffee estab.
A4 Ts need more time to impact others. There is so little of it available expressly for IC/T collaboration.
A4: Get rid of any stigma that TLs are agents for “the administration”
wish it wouldn't have been written that u have to have experience in the district to be a coach https://t.co/djuKELDBpR
Q4: If you could change one thing within your teacher leadership system, please explain what it would be and why.
What if we celebrated Ts success as much as our Ss. We all need our bucket filled by recognition from our peers!
A4: More personalized professional learning opportunities for Teacher Leaders. It can be a lonely road at first
A4 We are planning to not have model teachers. This will tie the hands of our ICs. All teachers have strengths to share.
A4: Although we haven't officially started yet, if I could change one thing it would be to have started 2 years ago.
A4 there are Ts that need to be in this role but sometimes shy away from it, need to get the good ones all in 2 share greatness
A4. Build up a fund for professional development that allows Ts to attend conferences & incentives for those chosen to present.
This!
Connect, learn, & grow with educators around the globe for free! Any time, any place, & any space! https://t.co/wkXRGNC2ZW
A4:More peer to peer observation and learning from other buildings. There are ways to do it now, but lots of paperwork.
A4 more positions so everyone was involved in all the conversations from the start..great stuff https://t.co/iGwAVtgDUI
Q4: If you could change one thing within your teacher leadership system, please explain what it would be and why.
Encourage leadership & risk-taking... Doesn't works? We tried, we move on....
Q4: More of Admin and Other TL asking teachers to share passion areas and ways they teach subjects. Passion drives education
A4: Echoing - you don't have to have a title to be a leader. Everyone can make a BIG difference in climate and culture of schools.
A4: As with all things in education, I wish we had more time for collaboration, conversations, and everything in between
A4: Not really a change, but a goal. T leaders video more lessons to increase opportunities & accessibility for peer observations.
A4. It's early days with the model at my school. Time needed to watch, wait, evaluate
A4: Finding the relevant task to that fits with the right teacher. Not just "join a committee" https://t.co/EDA4PB8F2S
A4: wishing the skepticism wouldn't be so prevailant. We are finishing yr. 2, and it seems Ts are coming along!
That is key! Celebrating growth and best practices gives confidence and recognition of a job well done! https://t.co/Q8okybybHl
What if we celebrated Ts success as much as our Ss. We all need our bucket filled by recognition from our peers!
The power of video is absolutely tremendous! https://t.co/OQco7bfXxl
A4: Not really a change, but a goal. T leaders video more lessons to increase opportunities & accessibility for peer observations.
Yes, great value in that role to work w/ so many others then step forward to a classroom w/ amazing ideas https://t.co/772XQrxswi
A4: I would like to see more people step into a leadership role. Maybe mentor Ts rotate so everyone can experience leadership.
this is something we need to find time for all Ts today. learn from one another.
So true! B/c of Twitter I learn from t's globally who share ideas, their practice... https://t.co/Spl4ibkwQi
A4: Sometimes, teachers don't realize they have something worth sharing...need to help them get over that mindset!
Many times Ts feel this way. They DO have great things to share! What are ways to do this? https://t.co/LoI6qp6awS
A4: Sometimes, teachers don't realize they have something worth sharing...need to help them get over that mindset!
w/o taking risks its hard to make huge gains also need support from peers and admin so not afraid to fail https://t.co/zDTY8WuUvq
Risks are now exciting. Teachers feel supported and validated. Teacher isolation is diminishing.
As well as difficulty with classroom coverage!
Yes, and I would love to see us branch out even more outside of our buildings to be best.
A4: Time to build the before mentioned trust. I don't think we are quite there yet.
A4 The ability to have teachers learn from one another more often and to share the good and the bad. https://t.co/sMZovyDGFF
Q4: If you could change one thing within your teacher leadership system, please explain what it would be and why.
A4: To not only grow individually but help inspire others realize their greatest potent. & work 2b more of the solution
And if you can get your site colleagues on Twitter, you can then walk next door and say' "How'd you do that?"
Can't be afraid to make mistakes. Encourage proactive leadership
This comes with building trust! https://t.co/AgDLwmGlLN
A4: Get rid of any stigma that TLs are agents for “the administration”
Observe other teachers to get ideas and share good things happening in the classroom.
This is very important and impactful. Seeing the greatness of others is a high-leverage strategy.
A4 I would try to remove the feeling of a hierarchy as many teachers exemplify leaders regardless of title - we're one team
Twitter has been an amazing PD opportunity for me! It helps me do what I do! https://t.co/OEtqDng9GN
So true! B/c of Twitter I learn from t's globally who share ideas, their practice... https://t.co/Spl4ibkwQi
A4: Sometimes, teachers don't realize they have something worth sharing...need to help them get over that mindset!
A4: Create a system where teacher leadership works from teachers up instead of top down. Organic leadership instead of forced.
A4 increase the number of teachers visiting each other's classrooms during student learning times, across all grade levels
Yes! How many times have we set through trainings/meeting and thought, "Why am I here?"
Q5 is right around the corner!
Q4: My hope for next year is that more Ts step into the model positions. So much power in watching and reflection.
Kara,
So True!
https://t.co/PLeZQoLijt
A4 I would try to remove the feeling of a hierarchy as many teachers exemplify leaders regardless of title - we're one team
So much agree with this. I'm so glad my Ts have embraced our system! https://t.co/TRMsuzTHhX
A4: More personalized professional learning opportunities for Teacher Leaders. It can be a lonely road at first
This is doable! Make it happen! https://t.co/HvHFekIDp5
A4 increase the number of teachers visiting each other's classrooms during student learning times, across all grade levels
Great question!! It's why I try to share pics on Twitter & share successes in weekly school blog to build confidence!
I would love to get fellow Ts close to me on Twitter!! One of my goals!
We aren't there yet either https://t.co/Fju0ihoIQP
A4: Time to build the before mentioned trust. I don't think we are quite there yet.
I think it’s more than that, but building trust is the first step. Agreed.
Q5: In what ways are TLs collecting data to show an increase in student achievement?
I agree! It's scary, but worth it! With strong relationships & support - huge growth WILL happen! https://t.co/HiZ9hkDfUK
w/o taking risks its hard to make huge gains also need support from peers and admin so not afraid to fail https://t.co/zDTY8WuUvq
Risks are now exciting. Teachers feel supported and validated. Teacher isolation is diminishing.
Is there an Instructional Coach chat?
A4 I'd like to remove the competition & feel the need to prove them/ourselves - they're all our Ss
A great goal! We created weekly challenges to get people to participate...gave away gift cards too! https://t.co/OhNAA9jWIR
I would love to get fellow Ts close to me on Twitter!! One of my goals!
Absolutely! takes place on Wednesday evenings at 9:00 w/ https://t.co/feLs8lprjv
Is there an Instructional Coach chat?
Google Classroom, Socrative, alternate assessment....
A4: To have dedicated time (without the prep!) for professional learning, discussions, sharing.
A5: Our ICs r looking at growth in our standardized test data & our PLC teams are analyzing assessment data to drive instruction.
Q5: We collect all kinds of data to show improvement. Most ties back to our assessment wall that drives decision making.
A5-Surveys every 30 days to Ts for feedback & rate level of interaction on checkin and being part of data teams
A5: Walkthrough observations/co-planning/feedback sessions with IC/P are powerful tools to monitor Ss engagement and success
Thanks, Dan. you beat me to it!
A5. Staff surveys, using walkthrough data, and benchmark assessment data to keep staff informed.
The IC and/or principal covers the classroom to make this happen. Weekly practice w/in our district. https://t.co/HudAL4p1gw
A5 Our IC's disaggregate data on all school and district assessments for discussion/learning purposes. Progress monitoring!
Great idea https://t.co/BpLaYyllJs
A great goal! We created weekly challenges to get people to participate...gave away gift cards too! https://t.co/OhNAA9jWIR
I would love to get fellow Ts close to me on Twitter!! One of my goals!
Underlining purpose of TLC is to transform teaching. But transform to what? 20th century thinking or 21st? https://t.co/601P18mGlH
A5: Implementation of student driven digital portfolios - Love
Love the weekly challenge idea!
A5 visible data wall in classroom shows learning targets S have Mastered to motivate during goal setting https://t.co/vqUjuvCSNk
Q5: In what ways are TLs collecting data to show an increase in student achievement?
A:5 TLs in another district collect data to assess effectiveness/gradual release of interventions and implementation of
It's part of building relationships ! https://t.co/kI2arIvqMW
That is key! Celebrating growth and best practices gives confidence and recognition of a job well done! https://t.co/Q8okybybHl
What if we celebrated Ts success as much as our Ss. We all need our bucket filled by recognition from our peers!
So many variables with all forms of assessment.....
Q5: As leaders who take risks in learning we have an obligation to collect data and share not just ideas but effectivenes.
A5.2: What you measure gets attention and gets accomplished. Keep data in perspective.
very important https://t.co/z5zDeokh0G
A5: Walkthrough observations/co-planning/feedback sessions with IC/P are powerful tools to monitor Ss engagement and success
Great video on Learning Walks on --helped us get started this year https://t.co/LsCZbxIbPz https://t.co/IqyGlTkfWv
A4 increase the number of teachers visiting each other's classrooms during student learning times, across all grade levels
A5: TLs gather data from instructional practices inventory to document levels of S engagement which correlates with S achievement
Yes - is every Wed. at 9pm. We are often joined by and others!
A5: all Ts are collecting data to show Ss growth. Not just TLs responsibility. TLs can help hold all acct for discussing data
A5: We have also posted Grade Level accomplishments with a Reading Data Wall for whole school to see.
I think this is a great way to make the district assessments more formative! https://t.co/yOr0RzUukL
A5 Our IC's disaggregate data on all school and district assessments for discussion/learning purposes. Progress monitoring!
Teacher Leaders can fulfill many roles in their schools/district--create opportunities for change/growth! https://t.co/PjcVS72VSD
A5. School Improvement Plan also drives teacher leader work.
Love the term "learning walks"!
A5 Screening data 3x a year. Interested in teacher data being collected to improve instruction to ultimately improve learning.
A5: All Ts collect data on Ss then work together with data team to analyze data & develop an instructional plan
Q5: Data has become more honest and therefore more valid, as we continue to foster trust and focus on growth.
We are one minute away from Q6 on
The student action is equally- or more important. The Danielson Framework rubrics are fantastic for this! https://t.co/1a2ktLUhXE
A5: Walkthrough observations/co-planning/feedback sessions with IC/P are powerful tools to monitor Ss engagement and success
Q6: How do the teacher leader and principal roles differ in your school?
This plan key to keep focus for all Ts in our building. Reminds us all that Teacher action is key for Ss success!
A5. Two Benchmark Assessments per year, quarterly assessment.
Yes is each Wed. at 9pm CST.
A5. Lots of data points however could be difficult to directly correlate to tls. Love the 30 day check in idea.
15 minutes away from ! 7pm PST! We are talking A Letter Gradeless Classroom!
A5: Quarterly T surveys; ICs document types/depth of collaborations, connecting with instructional strategies
Haven't heard of Danielson Framework rubrics. Will definitely look them up!
A6: The teacher leader lights the spark...the principal provides the firewood...you need both to start a fire!
Principals evaluate and TLs don’t, but we all want to improve teaching and learning through coaching.
Thanks for the blog link!
Data walls can be such a great way to motivate both staff and students! https://t.co/okplrJOUX6
A5: We have also posted Grade Level accomplishments with a Reading Data Wall for whole school to see.
Q6: Principals provide the direction, TL drive the bus.
A6. At our school the principal & asst. principal have both roles.
Also check the Learning Forward IC maps for Ts, Admin, Coaches, Central Office, etc...
A6- Admin evaluates and asks tough questions to help T grow;
TL supports T in growth - no judgement.
A6: Important to identify & communicate differences. Admin = evaluator, superior, etc. T leaders = partners, peers, side by side.
A6: teacher leaders advocate for all students just as principals do. "Are you a classroom teacher or a school teacher?"
We make all decisions on this assessment wall, it drives everything. Know right where are kids are.
Thanks Kathy for additional resources!
A6 The end goal is the same to improve teaching and learning. The main difference is the evaluation side of things.
A6 Principals evaluate and teacher leaders don't. https://t.co/3kCe2Eoneb
Q6: How do the teacher leader and principal roles differ in your school?
A6: Principals give us the instructional direction we need, the Teacher Leaders take that lead and run with it.
A6: Principal says, "Do It." TLs make it happen.
We've used this analogy in our district, too! https://t.co/qorFcEqJ2t
Q6: Principals provide the direction, TL drive the bus.
High Schools need to use more color coded rainbow walls. How powerful to have this in sight! https://t.co/jjGxD0zEXA
just for some perspective a teacher I know said she's spent $5 thousand of her own money in her classroom.
A6: Teachers are one more step away from being able to effect policy, but have complete control over learning in the classroom.
The Learning Forward IC maps tie nicely w/ the Standards for Prof. Learning that are in Iowa Code
A6.2: One thing that and I talk a lot about. Principal sets the vision, IC ensures that it is carried out w/ Ts.
A6 T leaders need to focus on modeling for Ts and guiding assessmnt. Q's. Principals are to facilitate for all needs.
A6 Incredibly important 4 all to support system https://t.co/bnbbAHaIEr
A6- Admin evaluates and asks tough questions to help T grow;
TL supports T in growth - no judgement.
A6 TL is my instructional guru & supports as a colleague, my admin supports as my evaluator. I need both! https://t.co/7jVNGOENuZ
Q6: How do the teacher leader and principal roles differ in your school?
I see our TL as a sounding board, cheerleader, push our thinking (teammate)where the P circulates ideas & motivates change (coach)
I would agree. But when it comes to the goal-the same.
This is displayed in our IC's office. We do not make this public to families. I'll show you that in next tweet.
So important to have both! Admin can't always keep things going, but giving direction is critical! https://t.co/btPDusexOb
A6: Principals give us the instructional direction we need, the Teacher Leaders take that lead and run with it.
Teacher Leaders can help tip the scale in favor of solutions, progress & empowerment for all https://t.co/CwjWzP24l5
A6 Principal and coaching roles differ when it comes to evaluation of teachers.
A6 TLs provide steady focus on instruction when management of schools hamper admin instructional vs. management
A6: IC's non-evaluative, peer, confidential, support vision. Admin: evaluate, encourage utilization of IC's, decision-makers
Kept behind closed doors in IC's office. Not available to public. Only for staff use in decision making.
A5: We have some schools documenting in a shared OneNote - proof that they are reaching objectives (Ss work, pics, vids, data)
Just like any other kind of coach, a teacher leader should motivate and inspire others along side the admin team.
different categories: male/female, IEP, 504, intervention, Title I support, ELL, etc.
The last question of is right around the corner. What a great group tonight!
A6: TLs r peers who offer resources & support. Admin evaluates & provides constructive feedback. Need both to improve our practice
A6 everyone has same goals/speaks same language, but TLs are on frontlines w/ Ts, P's captain of ship, assess all/give support
That's a great idea ! https://t.co/rQJCwq7eMm
A great goal! We created weekly challenges to get people to participate...gave away gift cards too! https://t.co/OhNAA9jWIR
I would love to get fellow Ts close to me on Twitter!! One of my goals!
Love OneNote for collaboration and documentation! Great place to keep it all!
Q7: What steps can you take tomorrow to increase/improve teacher leadership across your school and district?
The hour is almost up. Time goes fast when I'm chatting about my passion. :)
A7- Continue in the relationship piece in order to help Ts build confidence to take risks to improve practice for Ss.
A7: Critical to continue to promote the positive work that our teacher leaders can do to advance students. Collaborative effort.
A7: Share your ideas. Stand up for what you believe in. Take Risks!
Remember, it isn't about you, it is about our Ss.
Continue to encourage teachers to share their incredible practice. 1/2
A7. Sometimes it merely takes a "personal invitation" for someone to take that step into a leadership role.
A7: Attending a Science Leadership mtg for a new science curriculum pilot. Good place to start!
It is a place to see growth. Power in moving Ss as they progress.
A7: Just happened Friday when a T didn’t realize how amazing she was. Will continue to keep spreading the good word about gr8 Ts
A7: Be present in classrooms, model the way, and encourage/support risk taking.
A7: Be positive. Challenge others to make strides to improve themselves for our students.
A7: Go to a coach and ask for support.
Love the visual and very engaging!!
A7: Continue to do what we do! Encourage Ts in their instructional practice and offer practical PD.
A7: continue to listen/ask Ts what goals are & help them achieve.
Then seeing potential in Ts who yet to come it in themselves
A7. Continue to develop and share vision for TLS with stakeholders in the dustrict.
We are all a team. Some are generalists, some are specialists. We need each other to succeed
A7 If you have rock star TLs give them resources and support, then get out of their way! Great TLs don't need micromanaged
The great thing is that everyone can contribute, not just admin !
We appreciate it. What gets measured gets accomplished. Better every day.
Open your door, share, support, encourage collaboration
A7 watch teachers teach, build confidence in ALL staff of their ability to lead. View all staff as having leadership capacity.
A8: Probe with further questions. If the don’t know, go back to them.
A7 Support coaching efforts in your district. Take part in coaching yourself. Build a community of coaches - not just a position.
Encourage teachers, model growth mindset, take risks, and listen.
A7: Have a student teacher this semester. Promoting leadership with future Ts by example in the classroom and building!
A7: I just need to continue to push my own thinking, my own expertise to others. Together, we are the smartest ones in the room! :)
Shared leadership is very healthy for our schools.
A7: Contribute to positive environment among Ts. Ts need to feel confident in ther practice but humble enough to accept advice.
A7 give support to give/create confidence for what they are doing & promote the heck out of it with others
A7: Celebrate the good that all teachers are doing. Support instructional strategies that ensure individual student needs are met.
Now that is something to think about! Could easily do this w/ QR codes, etc. I like it! https://t.co/wX1mgRb3lA
Imagine a video wall to display data and Sw.
If you are interested in cost-effective instructional coaching training this summer I'd love to talk. https://t.co/2e4FrEV2B6
A7 Keep open mindset &positive attitude in all collaboration/creation of ideas for Ss success-encourage colleagues 2 be vulnerable
A7. If there is an elephant in the room, have the courage to name it and bring it centre stage
A7 I will continue to pursue opportunities for more Ts to engage in leadership opportunities. It's the least I can do!
A7: I can continue to work to be apart of the SOLUTION rather than the PROBLEM, stay current with change, & help others along
Just jumped in at the end here. A7: Communication, transparency, climate. These will be crucial in a successful TL system.
If you are a coach and would like to try virtual coaching for yourself to grow as a coach - let me know https://t.co/p88GjRqYJh
A7: Keep building trust and encouraging positive relationships to move district to higher achievement levels .
Visit for bank of resources and people to reach out to for more info on teacher leadership!
Great chats tonight! Thanks & . Gr8 thought ldrs!
A7: Communicate & provide support for those who need it. Continue to make connections & bring back new ideas to support learning.
A7: Be willing to be uncomfortable, take risks, ask questions instead of giving answers and model a growth mindset
Such a attitude! Love it!
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