Leading Transformational Experiences for K-8 Teachers

Abstract

School and district leaders have recognized that traditional educational practices such as “one and done” professional development and “drill and kill” standardized test preparation are not meeting the needs of adult and young learners. Schools all over the world are now starting to embrace innovative programs that focus on reflection, engagement, and overall well-being of staff and students. This chapter focuses on the role of teacher leaders in launching innovative programs that lead to long lasting positive change in their schools. These educators are also completing a doctoral program in educational leadership at Monmouth University where a key component is the implementation of a transformative learning project (TLP). The four diverse transformational experiences discussed in this chapter stemmed from initiatives focused on global citizenship education, mindfulness, teacher induction training to improve self-efficacy and “open classrooms” for job-embedded learning. These initiatives all intend to improve outcomes for teachers through various types of professional development activities led by teacher leaders and supported by school and district level administrators.