Teacher leadership is critical to the success of teachers, staff and students. According to Indeed, teacher leadership is “the process where teachers work and collaborate with school faculty and staff to improve current teaching approaches and develop new methods to further students’ academic success.” This leadership takes many forms across education and special education (SPED) has its unique nuances.
Teacher leadership skills include communication, strategic thinking and adaptability. The Master of Arts in Education (M.A.Ed.) – Teacher as Leader in Special Education online program from Northern Kentucky University (NKU) is designed to develop these skills. Courses such as Leadership in Contemporary Schools and Leadership in a Diverse Society prepare graduates to take on leadership roles and effectively support their school communities.
The National Education Association (NEA) outlines key teacher leadership competencies, including advocating for student learning, fostering collaborative cultures, accessing and using research, and promoting continuous improvement. These competencies are crucial for special education teacher leaders who aim to create inclusive and effective learning environments.
One of the core beliefs and themes in developing the teacher leadership competencies is that “teacher leadership cannot be an isolated task; one of the most important roles of the teacher leader in any pathway is to make connections with others (both teachers and other stakeholders) to strengthen their resolve and help them meet their goals.”
Special Education and Teacher Leaders Defined
Special education involves tailored instruction to meet the unique needs of students with disabilities. This includes individualized teaching methods, specialized equipment and supportive environments to help students achieve their full potential. Special education teachers advocate for these students and ensure they receive appropriate resources and support.
A teacher leader is an educator who goes beyond their classroom duties to influence and improve educational practices and policies within their school or district. They work collaboratively with other teachers, administrators and stakeholders to enhance teaching methods and student outcomes. In special education, teacher leaders often advocate for inclusive practices and provide expertise on effective instructional strategies.
How to Be a Teacher Leader in Special Education
Effective teacher leaders in special education possess various skills and attributes, including strong communication, the ability to make data-based decisions and a commitment to supporting colleagues. They also collaborate with families and facilitate transitions for students with disabilities.
The Brooks Publishing blog, excerpted and adapted from Belva C. Collins’s book Systematic Instruction for Students with Moderate and Severe Disabilities, offers six possible leadership abilities special educators have when they’ve mastered the art of systematic instruction:
- Make data-based decisions: Special education teacher leaders use data to guide instructional decisions. By collecting and analyzing data on student performance, they can determine the effectiveness of teaching methods and make informed adjustments to improve outcomes.
- Demonstrate school leadership: Volunteering for school initiatives and advocating for inclusive practices helps special education teachers become influential leaders within their schools. Their expertise can ensure all students benefit from school programs and policies.
- Mentor others: Mentorship is a critical aspect of teacher leadership. Special education teachers can mentor general education teachers, paraprofessionals and other school staff, sharing effective strategies and fostering a collaborative environment.
- Present and apply expertise: Sharing knowledge through professional development workshops and presentations helps spread effective practices and supports continuous improvement among staff.
- Collaborate with families: Working closely with families is essential for supporting students with disabilities. Special education teacher leaders can empower families by sharing strategies and providing resources to help them support their children at home.
- Aid during transitions: Assisting students and their families during transitions, such as moving from school to adulthood, ensures students have the support they need to succeed in new environments. This might involve working with job coaches and other support personnel.
Career Opportunities for Special Education Teacher Leaders
Graduates of NKU’s program are ready for various leadership roles, including:
- Special education coordinator: oversees special education programs and ensure compliance with regulations
- Instructional coach: provides support and professional development for teachers to improve instructional practices
- School administrator: leads school-wide initiatives to enhance educational outcomes for all students, including those with disabilities
By developing transferable skills and specialized knowledge, special education teacher leaders can drive positive change and support the success of all students.
Learn more about Northern Kentucky University’s online Master of Arts in Education – Teacher as Leader in Special Education.
