At which level do you NOW place yourself for each of your four chosen competencies? And How did the TLI experience impact your growth as a teacher leader in each of your four chosen competencies?
Overarching Competency #1 Continuing Learning and Education:
Started: Developing
Now: Performing
I was able to design and implement meaningful learning opportunities for educators and other employees of the Bozeman School District. I applied to present at MFPE's Educator Conference to show other communities in Montana what we did and help them bring Spanish resources to their own communities. I believe I still have a ways to go to be solid in the performing stage, but I am on the right track.
Overarching Competency #2 Adult Learning:
Started: Emerging
Now: Developing
I applied knowledge from research and interviews of adult learning to interactions with colleagues around my school and in the course. I learned to meet the needs of Adult learners to enhance their growth while understanding what expertise they brought to the course. This was the first time I had really looked into adult learning, and I had to do some reasearch to see how to best meet thier needs.
Foundational Competency Explore and Challenge Inequity:
Started: Emerging
Now: Developing
I am aware of what cultures and cultural practices are dominant in our school district and I brought them to the attention of my peers and administration. I applied my knowledge of cultural differences to teach others in the course other cultural norms and practices of our students. I engage in ongoing self-reflection in my own biases and how I can challenge inequities within our system.
Specific Leadership Pathway Competency Instructional-Community Awareness, Engagement, and Advocacy:
Started: Developing
Now: Performing
I addressed the needs of students within our district. I facilitated the creation of partnerships between the school system and Spanish-speaking community members. I strengthened the teaching profession by helping others see the inequalities in our system and challenging them for our students.
What was the most valuable part of the TLI process for you?
The most valuable part of the TLI process was all the reflection and challenging norms I did. I had the chance to really look at my own biases and expectations of others based on race, age, and gender. Working through this project I learned a lot about myself and others just based on how they reacted to the idea that we were not serving our students in the best way. I received much more positive responses and participation than I initially expected based on the ages and stages of life of my coworkers. I also loved that I was able to stand for something I believe strongly in, in a positive professional manor. I believe it is incredibly important to challenge inequalities we see, especially if those facing the inequalities are unable to speak out on their own.
What are your next steps to continue your growth as a teacher leader?
I have many next steps as a teacher leader. This fall I will be working as a chairperson for the MFPE Educator's Conference as well as presenting at the conference. Completing TLI has helped my self-confidence grow and helped me to see that even though I am very young for my profession I can still make a difference. I am also completing my Master's Degree. I started my program in June of 2024, I am working towards a degree in English Language Learners. My goal is to one day be a Multicultural educator for my district and help our new ELLs to learn the skills and language needed to thrive in an English classroom. After all of this, I will start working toward becoming a National Board Certified Teacher.