The Role of a District Teacher Leadership Program in Supporting School and District Improvement Initiatives

• In Event: 29.051 - Teacher Leadership, Learning, and Change

Abstract

This mixed methods study examines the role of a district teacher leadership program in supporting school and district improvement initiatives. Qualitative data was primarily collected via semi-structured interviews and focus groups, while quantitative data was gathered through online surveys and state datasets. This study focuses on one district’s effort to build capacity by investing in teacher leaders as a way to better serve a changing student population. Using a distributed leadership model, we examine how the district’s five-year teacher leadership program became a vehicle for recognizing the expertise of teachers, and providing teacher leaders with new opportunities to be involved in school and district improvement initiatives.

Authors

• Ana M. Elfers, University of Washington

• Margaret L. Plecki, University of Washington