How does awareness of your own biases, experiences of privilege, and personal values inform your chosen Capstone Project?

As I began the program, I didn’t understand how my own biases, personal values, or privilege would inform my program. What an eye-opener! Some of the first work we did was evaluating our personal biases and I was amazed at all the biases I had! This is good information as now I am aware of them and can be cognizant of them as I move forward with my Capstone project. Thinking about others from “their point of view” has made this journey much more informative than I originally thought. Diversity, equity, and cultural competence are something all educators should be aware of, I thought I was doing a good job, but as new learning happens I realized there was A LOT more to learn and to take into consideration.

Overreaching Competency #1 Interpersonal Effectiveness Beginning of TLI emerging (1/17/21) currently developing (7/2/21)

Over years of working with colleagues, I have found ways to work together as a team, supporting one another. I have had to “hold my tongue” many times to not stir the pot but am now a better communicator. I am able to adequately express wants and needs.

Overarching Competency #2 Group Processes Beginning of TLI emerging (1/17/21) currently nearing performing (7/2/21)

At this time I understand how to navigate through difficult situations while respecting others. I have been exploring roles as a teacher leader in small groups, such as union committees. I have build my confidence in myself and leadership and am able to effectively manage a larger group and guide them through conflicts. Sometimes, I still I avoid conflicts and allow others to take the lead in these situations.

Foundational Competency Diversity-Equity-Cultural Competency- Collaborate Purposefully

Beginning of TLI emerging (1/17/21) currently nearing performing (7/2/21)

Since being in TLI, I am so much more aware of diversity, equity, and cultural influences. Diversity, equity, and cultural competency are not just words anymore, they are actions for myself. I knew I have always been equitable in my classroom but realized I wasn't relating and listening to my colleagues. Now I don't "assume" things in school meetings and take into account I don't know what they are going through or where they have been. I am now able to listen and consider diversity in my building. I understand now diversity can be beliefs, thoughts, or privilege. Being respectful and equitable (and being mindful) has made it easier to collaborate with an open and willing mind.

Specific Leadership Pathway Competency: Instructional Leadership: Collaborative Relationships

Beginning of TLI emerging (1/17/21) currently performing (7/2/21)

I have always understood the need to work collaboratively for a productive environment and have been a “team player.” I am learning and understanding the policies behind the practice and able to engage effectively while stating my own opinions and not offending others. I have created a few collaborative documents for our school and have volunteered for more leadership roles.

Describe your work with diverse stakeholders, shared learning experiences, and how you anticipate your leadership pathway mindset might evolve during the TLI process.

As I began the project I met with my principal and had no idea he would influence me to change the project. It was too broad and evolved as I began working. Other stakeholders were surprised as well. What I thought was going to be said, wasn't. The special teachers were much more accommodating. The classroom teachers fought the idea of collaboration more than anticipated. As I become more culturally aware, my mind also shifted to new ways to engage colleagues. They seemed receptive as shown by my interviews and survey.

Describe how your awareness of those from different cultures, experiences, and backgrounds inform your chosen project.

In the beginning, I was aware of cultures, experiences, and backgrounds but didn’t understand the true need to consider them in the project. Now that I have more understanding by speaking to my colleagues, I am able to carry out the project better.