Empowering Teacher Leadership: Professional Development for Teachers and School Leaders Based on Empirical Data

• In Event: The Education Leaders We Need Now: Innovations in Leadership Development and Approaches to Leading

Abstract

This paper describes the design, implementation, and impact of two professional development workshops—one for teachers and one for school leaders—developed in response to findings from a mixed-methods study on teacher leadership. The original study surveyed 259 educators across a northeastern U.S. state using the validated Teacher Leader Inventory and followed with focus groups. Findings revealed inconsistencies in systemic leadership practices and highlighted a demand for stronger support structures. These insights were used to create context-responsive professional development delivered virtually. The sessions were well-received and sparked further interest among both teachers and administrators. This paper offers a model for translating research into action by aligning leadership development with localized needs, and it outlines strategies for sustaining teacher leadership to improve educational capacity.

Authors

• Joanne Connor, Rowan University

• Margaret Thornton, Rowan University