The Emerging Teacher Leaders Conceptual Framework
This logo is designed to represent our guiding principles, each a strong commitment to enhance the performance of teacher candidates. Reflection is at the heart of performance and the six other principles mediate reflection and performance. Caring is at the top of the principles because without caring, there cannot be reflection that focuses on the needs of students nor can performance be truly effective. Content is at the base of the Conceptual Framework to represent the need for a solid foundation in content knowledge to ensure high quality performance. The four remaining principles are equally important to teaching and learning that resounds for all students in the classroom.
Content - Teachers have a broad knowledge, know the content appropriate to their specialty, understand the ways their teaching area connects to the broad curriculum, and know relevant applications of the content they teach.
Pedagogy - Teachers know the ways learning takes place, use a variety of methods, are expert communicators, have strong technology skills, plan instruction that is appropriate, use a variety of tools, teach critical thinking and problem solving skills, help students develop skills of teamwork, leadership, and cooperation, and instill a love of learning.
Diversity - Teachers demonstrate their belief that diversity is a strength, treat students as individuals, know and respect the influence of race, ethnicity, gender, and religion on a child’s development, adapt their teaching to students with special needs, and work collaboratively with the families of their students.
Leadership - Teachers lead in their classrooms and school, advocate for schools and children, function effectively in a complex community environment, meet high ethical standards of practice, and advocate for the teaching profession.
Reflection - Teachers analyze their teaching, collaborate with colleagues, use research in their classrooms, and continue to grow professionally.
Caring - Teachers enjoy spending time in the company of children and young adults, learn about each of their students, maintain the dignity of each student, and express pride in their students’ accomplishments.
Technology - Teachers recognize that their students must possess the knowledge and skills to function in a 21st Century environment and use technology effectively and appropriately to enhance instruction, assessment, productivity, and communication with school and professional communities.