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Leadership for Democracy in the Classroom
An Outreach Initiative for Diversity in LeadershipCI 510 Leadership for Democracy in the Classroom (4 credits)
Leadership for Democracy in the Classroom is a unique professional development experience for teachers of ethnic diversity and others who are thinking of branching into school leadership.
During this year-long program, you examine and address the challenges you may face in your transition from the classroom into leadership positions and administration. You explore opening new channels of communication through dialogue with a cohort of your peers and through mentoring from local educational leaders. This experience provides a collaborative learning experience and a community of colleagues across school districts.
You and your cohort learn about school leadership and best practices through:
- A personal mentorship component of the program
- Poignant conversations with current and experienced administrators
- Review and discussion of research-based school leadership literature
The conceptual framework for the course is chosen by the instructors and is based on their experience as well as the knowledge and experience of current and past teachers, administrators, and expert practitioners. The instructors select readings and facilitate discussions that address topics such as:
- Developing relationships and communication skills that respect and honor cultural differences (e.g., with students, parents, teachers, and community members).
- The range, scope, and impact of leadership styles.
- Understanding and applying change theory.
- How to preserve cultural heritage and identity while working in a system dominated by another culture.
- Identifying individual strengths and weaknesses and goal setting.
- Understanding the impact of marginalization.
- Serving as an instructional leader.