Our goals are to connect grads and current students, share ideas and advice, and be inspired. #ElonEd chat brings together experienced teachers and novice teachers to discuss best practices. We see our chat as a way to mentor future teachers who are students at Elon, and anyone who wants to join us in that effort is welcome.
Welcome to the #ElonEd chat! Our goals are to 1) foster collaboration among alumni, current students, and other educators, 2) to share ideas and advice, and 3) inspire and encourage each other.
The #ElonEd moderators tonight are @abssweb Superintendent, @wch33 & me, @MrDpasion. We are looking forward to the conversation! Our topic is teacher leadership and advocacy.
Hello! I am Miki, junior Environmental Studies student here at @elonuniversity. Hoping to do some type of enviro ed/advocacy work in the future! #ElonED
Hi everyone! I'm Emily Boynton and I'm a senior at Elon studying elementary and special education. Taking a break from studying for finals to participate tonight! #ElonEd
Hi everyone, I’m looking forward to tonight’s #eloned conversation. I’m an ‘03 poli sci grad, now Director of Alumni Engagement at Elon & an ABSS school board member. Proud of @wch33 and @MrDpasion
Teachers are leaders within the classroom, but “teacher leadership” usually means the many forms of formal & informal leadership they provide outside of the classroom #eloned
A1: stepping outside of your comfort zone to do what's best for your school, district, community, but most importantly the kids. Helping others feel comfortable enough to do the same! #ELONED
A1: stepping outside of your comfort zone to do what's best for your school, district, community, but most importantly the kids. Helping others feel comfortable enough to do the same! #ELONED
A1: Teacher leadership means taking initiative, pursuing your passions and utilizing PLN, students, admin., all resources to achieve your goals and disseminate thoughts #ElonEd
Teachers informally and formally having a leadership role outside of the classroom. Teachers are making a change outside of their classroom bubble #ELoned
A1:Teacher leadership isn't just being at the front of the classroom - t's about leading and showing showing by example - helping set a positive path for students #ElonEd
A1: stepping outside of your comfort zone to do what's best for your school, district, community, but most importantly the kids. Helping others feel comfortable enough to do the same! #ELONED
Christina here. @WCPSSchat CCR SpEd teacher. @MeredithCollege c/o 2013 alumna, returning in spring as adjunct professor. Happy to join from my phone, not TweetDeck so bear with me #ElonEd
A1: Setting a good example, volunteering with other teachers, proposing solutions to problems instead of just pointing them out, leading culture change in the school. #eloned
A1: Teacher leadership is something we can all embody. Using your own particular set of skills to make a change within the four walls of your classroom, along with leading colleagues. We all are good at something, let's make sure to share it! #ElonEd
A1: Leaders that take on the roles that support teachers and students-whether it’s been assigned to them or not. They see the work that needs to be done and they do it. #ElonEd
A1: Teacher leaders not only teach the students in their classroom, but also have an influence that extends beyond their classroom to others within their school and community #ElonEd
A1: Teacher leadership is being able to lead within your classroom as well as outside of it. It is learning from others (both other Ts and Ss) and growing from your mistakes. Being adaptable to any situation is also important. #ElonEd
Yes, I often explain to my students that a form of leadership is to lead by example and set the tone for other students and how they will act and react in and out of the classroom #ElonEd
A1 TL is multifaceted, but often includes a T's personal drive to hone content knowledge, relationship building (w/ students, peers, community) and classroom management. #eloned#teacherleadershiptrifecta?
A1: Teachers whether selected/elected for the role or assumed the role through sharing their practices with other educators and empowering those around them. #ElonEd
A1: Teachers lead every day inside the classroom, but when I think of teacher leadership I think outside of the class as well - taking ownership of PD, advocacy, inspiring & leading positive changes in school culture. #eloned
A1: Helping kids, helping kids, and helping kids. Doing what you can to help them in your classroom, to help them in life, to help others learn how to help them, and continuing to learn how to best serve #eloned
A1: Teachers lead every day inside the classroom, but when I think of teacher leadership I think outside of the class as well - taking ownership of PD, advocacy, inspiring & leading positive changes in school culture. #eloned
A2 Twitter has been an invaluable tool to elevate my profession, connect with a diverse group of eduleaders, and gather resources from an endless library #ElonEd
A2: by getting involved in the community, knowing what's going on in your community in regards to education, holding public officials accountable. SHARING OUR STORIES because we know the positive things going on & they need to be shared! #ElonEd
A1: being a teacher leader is when you go beyond the four walls of your classroom to help other teachers and to advocate for your (and everyone else's) students! Teacher leaders dont use the field as a career, but as a lifestyle #ElonEd
A2: #ElonEd We must be committed to sharing the GOOD NEWS of public ed! Our success stories! And speak in positive way about our jobs, our schools. Love what you do - it shows!
A2 And I advocate for public ed through my day to day convos with students, colleagues, family, community members. I’ll talk your ears off about how awe-inspiring this gig is. #ElonEd
A2 Twitter has been an invaluable tool to elevate my profession, connect with a diverse group of eduleaders, and gather resources from an endless library #ElonEd
A2: Be the example. Don't speak negatively, especially in public. See the best in everything. And speak to all of the positive things happening in public ed, regardless of where you may be. #ElonEd
A2: I believe people should know what I'm for, rather than what I'm against. Speaking positively about my colleagues, administration and ALL students is very important. #ElonEd
Yes! One of the biggest challenges for educators is to remain relevant! That also a commitment to action research. Lots of it can be found right here on #Twitter#ElonEd
I’m forever thankful to a professor who forced my cohort to join Twitter as a professional educator. Glad to see #ElonEd is doing the same. I’ll encourage my class next semester to use Twitter as well.
A2: Advocate by showcasing your own strengths as an educator as well as your school's strengths. Persevering in times of trouble, sharing the stories. Always celebrating and rejoicing in the positives - showing people it is possible to excel #ElonEd
A2: In order to get the mass public to view teaching as a profession, we have to act as professionals. We can whine and complain, but that would just perseverate the negative view of the public education system. #ElonEd
A2. I advocate through talking to others about my experiences student teaching in different public classrooms. Those stories are so valuable. It is important to share those positive stories with others! #ElonEd
A2: by getting involved in the community, knowing what's going on in your community in regards to education, holding public officials accountable. SHARING OUR STORIES because we know the positive things going on & they need to be shared! #ElonEd
A2. YES! Love seeing all the answers about sharing your story. Important to know your audience too. Are ALL your stakeholders on Twitter? Make sure you're story has the biggest reach possible. #eloned
#ElonEd
A2. Be mindful of your words in all audiences... you never know who is listening, so ensure you speak as if your students (or their parents) were there... being an educator is a gift that keeps giving as you keep growing
A2: Finding ways to celebrate the successes and promote the positives of public education while simultaneously dealing with the negatives and any issues that may arise #ElonEd
A2: I believe people should know what I'm for, rather than what I'm against. Speaking positively about my colleagues, administration and ALL students is very important. #ElonEd
Storytelling is a powerful tool in the classroom in front of students, in front of other teachers in workroom or PD, and especially in front of public ed skeptics. Share your heart. #ElonEd
A2: Advocate by showcasing your own strengths as an educator as well as your school's strengths. Persevering in times of trouble, sharing the stories. Always celebrating and rejoicing in the positives - showing people it is possible to excel #ElonEd
A2: Advocate by not being silent. Education is political and whether you know it or not, you're in politics. Advocate for students first and teachers second, because their education matters most! #ElonEd
A2 #ElonEd Sharing success stories via Twitter and other outlets provided by district (ABSS Shout Outs) and other outlets. Spread and celebrate the news!
A2. YES! Love seeing all the answers about sharing your story. Important to know your audience too. Are ALL your stakeholders on Twitter? Make sure you're story has the biggest reach possible. #eloned
Agreed. We also have to inspire and encourage those with compassion, intelligence and a desire to serve and shape the future to become teachers! #Eloned
A2: I think as an educator it's critical that we are always sharing stories from our classrooms. Educators have a great opportunity to share and express their students’ needs. #ElonEd
A2: Advocate by not being silent. Education is political and whether you know it or not, you're in politics. Advocate for students first and teachers second, because their education matters most! #ElonEd
A2 Simple & powerful things any T can do to advocate for our profession: 1) don't feed into negative; actively switch gears to highlight + when convos get petty. 2) Create opportunities for Ss to shine, & share these moments w/ 🌎#eloned
A2 cont.: I try to personally advocate for public education with colleagues in my school. I like to share research or new practices I've found to have a discussion with more experienced Ts. We have to advocate for public education inside AND outside of school! #ElonEd
A2: I'm going to have to agree with @scomorrison#sharebrilliance not only on twitter, but in daily interactions. Increase your ability to relate what you do for people in EVERY profession and remind them of how their educational upbringing shaped who they are today #ElonEd
A2: Advocate by not being silent. Education is political and whether you know it or not, you're in politics. Advocate for students first and teachers second, because their education matters most! #ElonEd
There are a lot of us, though. It's important to start the positivity at school and take it to the community instead of the other way around. Reduce the impact of that one negative voice before it gets to the community. #eloned
I’d think so, but do legislators trust us? Parents who flee to private schools? Current policies and systems don’t reflect teachers as trusted voice. How do teachers make sure their voice is heard? #ElonEd
A3: I hope that I can use my knowledge, education, and my voice to make a change - show people the importance of quality education and actively work towards improving education in schools. #ElonEd#EnviroEd
#ElonEd
A3. Knowing you, as a T, have a voice and using that voice to advocate for students and their futures; keep up with education politics and know WHY decisions are being made - have an educated opinion and use your voice
A3 #ElonEd This is a tough one because many don't believe that we "have a say". We MUST believe that we can make a difference! Share those successes and beliefs and needs!
I’d think so, but do legislators trust us? Parents who flee to private schools? Current policies and systems don’t reflect teachers as trusted voice. How do teachers make sure their voice is heard? #ElonEd
A3: In my district, I feel as though I have very little. I try to advocate for my little ones, but it feels like it falls upon deaf ears. That is the worst feeling. #ElonEd
A3: By engaging in Action Research, you can analyze best practices and with evidence you can implement change first on a small scale. Eventually to bridge the gap between what policies are mandated and how that influences the scope of education #ElonEd
A1: I define teacher leadership as the ability for teachers to step outside of their comfort zone to try new things, continually research best practices, and innovate! And then open your doors to let others in and share your process, NOT perfection #ElonEd
A3: Even though I am a private school educator outside the US, I am an original #TFA CM and advocate for an excellent education for all Ss regardless of zip code. #Eloned
A3: Remember, changing policy is not solo work. You have to partner with others to bring about systemic changes. Find allies. Organize. Be strategic in your communication with stakeholders. Practice what you preach. Build trust. #ElonEd
A3: being actively involved, speaking up for what's right for kids. Knowing that they may be uncomfortable & you will be disappointed at times with outcomes, but we have to keep using our voices. #ElonEd
A3: If you don’t speak up or get involved, then you have no influence. If you want influence, it is important to communicate with colleagues around you and propose solutions or improvements that will benefit the student. #ElonEd
A3: @scomorrison I agree that building trust is crucial. That is one of the positives of Ts staying with a district (T retention). Hopefully increases impact on policy and support. #ElonEd
A3: Remember, changing policy is not solo work. You have to partner with others to bring about systemic changes. Find allies. Organize. Be strategic in your communication with stakeholders. Practice what you preach. Build trust. #ElonEd
A2: Advocate by constantly questioning whether a decision is best for students. Show up at commissionner meetings, board meetings, school leadership team. Raise questions and issues. Show the great things that happen in your building each day. #ElonEd
I often felt this way - especially in a large district. Surround yourself with a support system within your school and don’t give up on what you know is best!! #eloned
A3: Remembering that School Boards and State Legislatures serve the people, not the other way around. Be confident when you speak out, these policies impact every part of your life, you should have a say. #ElonEd
A3: Influence looks different depending on stage your acting. Don't think one person can't make change happen. All it takes is for one cog to break to make the system stop. #ElonEd
I think many leaders will give Ts more professional trust to go big and try new things after teacher leaders demonstrate previous success. It's so important to plan well so people will see and follow your vision #eloned
In reply to
@nathan_stevens, @MsConesTweets, @MrDpasion
A4: Still being a student means a lot of people don't think I know enough about the topic or that i'm not a credible source because I don't have my degree yet #ElonEd (someone told me this once...)
A3: In my first year teaching I was told we had to track our reading groups. I figured out quickly this was not policy. I spoke up about the issue. The next year our reading groups were mixed abilities and were for the next 10 years. Don't be afraid to question tradition. #ElonEd
A4: Balancing personal convictions with reality. Sometimes what I want isn't what's best for everyone and I need to back down. We're all part of something bigger than just us. #eloned
This is important for our current #Eloned students to think about. We are pretty much on the same page in the Elon bubble. How will you continue to advocate once you’re out of the bubble?
A3: In my district, I feel as though I have very little. I try to advocate for my little ones, but it feels like it falls upon deaf ears. That is the worst feeling. #ElonEd
A3: When a teacher speaks at a school board meeting every board member jumps to attention. According to this Board member, nobody has a stronger voice in policy. A lot can be done at the local level. #eloned
A4: lack of trust in public education/educators. not being "allowed" to use your professional judgement because of pre-existing rules or policies. #ElonEd
I think many leaders will give Ts more professional trust to go big and try new things after teacher leaders demonstrate previous success. It's so important to plan well so people will see and follow your vision #eloned
In reply to
@nathan_stevens, @MsConesTweets, @MrDpasion
A4: As a teacher canidate I don't have a full time job in the profession. Even though I do research and partake in discussions, some people will discredit me because I don't have years of experience. #ElonEd
A3: When a teacher speaks at a school board meeting every board member jumps to attention. According to this Board member, nobody has a stronger voice in policy. A lot can be done at the local level. #eloned
I think many leaders will give Ts more professional trust to go big and try new things after teacher leaders demonstrate previous success. It's so important to plan well so people will see and follow your vision #eloned
In reply to
@nathan_stevens, @MsConesTweets, @MrDpasion
#ElonEd
A4. Challenges - having a truly informed opinion, finding the best path for voice, and living with disappointment until the next time bc it doesn't always work out the way it should for students...
A4 #ElonEd Or the opposite .... "you're old and we need to move on...." The bottom line is everyone has something to offer. We must listen and filter what will move us forward!
This happens still when you are in your first few years! There is a fine balance between knowledge from college and experience. Just know that your #ElonEd is going to get your farther than a lot of other undergrad experiences and you'll have a lot to bring to your school.
He took the words right out of my mouth. Totally agree. There is also the perception that new teachers have fresh ideas, know the latest research, and have the energy to make change happen. It's an advantage, too. #ElonEd
There is definitely still a lot I don't know when it comes to education, but I try to stay up to date (especially through @scomorrison tweets and class readings) #ElonEd
A4: Short story...
Me: I think we should restrict all the desserts in the cafeteria. Too much sugar for the kids.
Principal: Sorry, they make big bucks on cookies and ice cream. Someone might lose their job.
Me: Oh.
#ElonEd
A4: As a new teacher, I feel that other professionals may not acknowledge or respect my opinions since I lack the years of experience that they may have #ElonEd
A4: My perception of the challenge is the engagement of those not in the educational establishment. Teachers shouldn’t be the only ones advocating for PE. Successful advocacy comes when community leaders & groups roll up their sleeves to join w/ teachers as partners. #eloned
A5 I've found the rigidity in the daily school schedule, as well as prioritizing time to plan and implement initiatives have been challenges for me. Also asking for financial support to make certain things happen is something I'd rather avoid, but I need to get over that! #ELONED
A3: My mom started teaching me how to advocate from a young age. I was marching at the Capitol, speaking with senators, and writing letters while still in el ed. However, advocacy and policy changes can start small. Speak up wherever you are. #eloned
Thanks, Dr. Harrison! I have had some amazing experiences at WHS and learned from some exemplary teachers there (and at Elon). I also know know that even more experiences and time in the classroom will help me continue to grow as an educator. #ElonEd
A5: I think starting a teacher mentor program where new teachers are paired with experienced educators would be super beneficial for all involved as well as the school! #ElonEd
A4: As a preservice teacher, I feel fortunate to learn from exemplar professors while I am in the classroom because I am equipped with countless resources that allow me to be confident and knowledge Questioning everything, and use evidence to back up practices I engage in #ElonEd
Thanks, Dr. Harrison! I have had some amazing experiences at WHS and learned from some exemplary teachers there (and at Elon). I also know know that even more experiences and time in the classroom will help me continue to grow as an educator. #ElonEd
A4: One challenge for a teacher can be the lack of autonomy many teachers feel. Sometimes we can get “stuck” and lose our voice. The challenge is to find the voice and use it for advocacy. We are fortunate our supt @wch33 is a champion for Ts and Ss #ElonEd
A5: We can set up mentorships/partnerships among teachers in the school so that they can learn and support one another in their leadership endeavors #eloned
A5: finding ways to highlight Ts strengths (ones they may not even be aware they have) could help them feel more comfortable sharing those strengths in a leadership role. #ElonEd
A5. Hybrid roles with flexible schedules that allow to still be in the classroom but then have the ability to take on other roles in the school (coach, mentor, admin intern, etc.) #eloned
#ElonEd
A5. Teacher leadership is not something that has to have a long title or extra pay... everyone has the ability to lead - find strengths and grow from each other (book club, PLC, experiential learning outside your comfort zone)... leaders are everywhere
A5: Teachers must be empowered and encouraged to demonstrate leadership by their school administration, as well as other professionals within the school #ElonEd
A5: Ts need to have opportunities to lead, to weigh in on decisions, to "have a say" which encourages teacher leadership. And to feel they are heard. #ElonEd
A5: We need a good mix of formal and informal roles. Rotating membership on committees to encourage new voices. Deliberate shout-outs and recognition from admin for teachers, new esp., who show initiative and leadership. #eloned
@wch33, your presence in the schools and desire to know what is going on with your teachers is so empowering. I wish I had a superintendent like that when I was a classroom teacher! #ElonEd
A5. Creating opportunities for collaboration with other Ts, mentorships among Ts, and sharing the positive experiences/stories with others in the community! #ElonEd
@wch33 - I second what @erinhone712 said! You have done much to encourage teacher leadership through TLA, being visible and in classrooms. I believe that Ts know you will listen. That makes a difference. #ElonEd
@wch33, your presence in the schools and desire to know what is going on with your teachers is so empowering. I wish I had a superintendent like that when I was a classroom teacher! #ElonEd
A5: A school is a much brighter environment when the administration doesn't search the negative all day, but finds the positive in teachers & students. Amplify/reinforce the positive... better results will come! #ElonEd
A5: Teachers should try their best to go to professional conferences. Ask for the financial support. It can be a game changer for you and your students. Attend the first year then start presenting every year after. #ElonEd
It doesn't have to be new teachers to more seasoned teachers. I think it would be beneficial to have a mentor/partner in a different content area (especially in middle grades) so that you can learn how to connect your content to another content area for your students #eloned
A5: We can set up mentorships/partnerships among teachers in the school so that they can learn and support one another in their leadership endeavors #eloned
A5 Having more flexibility in the school schedule, creating teacher leadership roles uniquely designed to empower students at individual schools, and protecting T time so Ts can have an easier time to dream big, and then make it happen! #eloned
A5 Having more flexibility in the school schedule, creating teacher leadership roles uniquely designed to empower students at individual schools, and protecting T time so Ts can have an easier time to dream big, and then make it happen! #eloned
A5: Agreeing with @scomorrison on professional conferences. Find one to support your content, learn and build a community beyond your school. Do the same with education/pedagogical societies. Twitter is a great place to start, but meet the faces behind the avatars! #ElonEd
A5: something my school has is a "Pineapple Chart" where you can put down times to invite other Ts into your room to observe you. Teacher leadership first starts with believing that you have things others can learn from. I love going into others rooms to learn from them #ElonEd
#ElonEd A5 @MrDpasion There is that "time" thing again. It is hard to have time to do things when the schedule is jam-packed with teaching. Tchr Leader works behind the "8-4" hours.
A5. Hybrid roles with flexible schedules that allow to still be in the classroom but then have the ability to take on other roles in the school (coach, mentor, admin intern, etc.) #eloned
A5: Agreeing with @scomorrison on professional conferences. Find one to support your content, learn and build a community beyond your school. Do the same with education/pedagogical societies. Twitter is a great place to start, but meet the faces behind the avatars! #ElonEd
A5: something my school has is a "Pineapple Chart" where you can put down times to invite other Ts into your room to observe you. Teacher leadership first starts with believing that you have things others can learn from. I love going into others rooms to learn from them #ElonEd
always refreshing and inspirational to get outside your community and see what others are doing - even if you feel content and satisfied in your own teaching! Always room for improvement and growth. #ElonEd
A5: I think we need to create more opportunities to hear more voices. To be a leader, you need to serve, and to serve others well, you need to hear them. There needs to be more space in schools to hear from other teachers, parents, students, etc. #eloned
Catching up on the questions I missed A1: I would define teacher leadership as the ability to show/role model for students that teachers also grow and continue learning through research and collaborating with others #eloned
@erinhone712 Surrounding yourself with positive people helps give strength to do all we need to do and be to be a leader. And to combat nay-sayers. #ElonEd
A5: Become a teacher leader by using twitter as a discussion board with your colleagues. I see a lot Ts using twitter to post what they are doing in their classrooms, which has its own purpose, but I try to post more though provoking Qs or articles #ElonEd
A5: I think there are many ways we can promote teacher leadership especially for younger teachers. Having a supportive administration that provides professional development, the opportunity to network with experienced teachers, and attending seminars. #ElonEd
Q5. Develop communities where teachers could share ideas they are using for others to implement. Could be by grade, interest, specialty, subject... #eloned
A6: the short and sweet answer is yes. There's so much educators can do to promote diversity -- making it known that everyone brings something new to the table and stressing that their class wouldn't be the same without everyone there #ElonEd
A6: In Math 3 we are learning about Trig Identities... why not talk about our identities too? (Yes, even in the math classroom we can talk about diversity). #ElonEd
A6: In Math 3 we are learning about Trig Identities... why not talk about our identities too? (Yes, even in the math classroom we can talk about diversity). #ElonEd
A6. #ElonEd. One thing I absolutely love about Elon Elem is our global diversity. It brings such richness not only to students and families, but to our staff. It is powerful. Invigorating. @DavernJack@ctperkins726
#ElonEd
A6. Be aware of your own diversity, or lack thereof... ensure students can see themselves in the books they encounter in your classroom @diversebookshttps://t.co/HPhCwrOIs1
A2: Continue to keep the community and families engaged in their students' learning. Positive and genuine interactions and asking for their help in advocating for their child's learning will help change the public's opinion about our profession #eloned
A6: Be conscious about your own privilege and background. Promote and include diverse within all aspects. Be wary of just showing one side to every story or lesson. #ElonEd
We’ll be posting a schedule for the spring chats in early 2018. DM me if you are interested in co-moderating and/or have an idea for a chat topic #eloned
Thank you for participating in tonight’s #ElonEd chat! Keep the conversation going between now and the next chat (in 2018!!) by using the #ElonEd hashtag.
Love this!! Find ways to incorporate positive conversations in your lesson plans. @AbigailKrump did a great lesson in our class about eating healthy and loving your body. #ElonEd#EnviroEd
A6: When the diversity isn't in your school/community, bring it in! Find a classroom abroad to video chat into your room, challenge your students to think about different kids of diversity, question why society functions as it does. #ElonEd
A6: Research has shown that while minority teachers are being hired at higher rates, they also have higher turnover rates. Providing teachers with mentoring, counseling, and other support mechanisms can help minority teacher retention rates! #ElonEd
A6: Seeking out people with diverse backgrounds & experiences when hiring for positions. Making sure all students feel heard and are represented! #ElonEd
A6: Encourage students, parents and fellow tachers to share what makes them unique! I've heard some teachers tell students to not speak Spanish in the classroom and that can make students think their identity isn't valued #ElonEd
Special thanks to our co-moderators & partners in education & teacher education @wch33 & @MrDpasion of @ABSSWeb! We appreciate your generosity with your time & your ongoing support of #ElonEd
