Let me be clear in saying that I absolutely despise when educators refer to educational leadership or administration positions as the “dark side”. It is something that has always bothered me- well before I ever considered venturing into the darkness myself. And after recently completing my educational leadership program, it makes less sense to me now than ever before. In every other industry, personal and professional growth is something that is encouraged and honored. It is natural for employees to be molded for leadership positions- whether through their own ambition or because their potential is recognized by the leadership in that organization. So why, in a profession built on encouraging children to develop, grow, and aspire to do great things, do we as educators view those willing to step into leadership roles as sellouts, traitors, and villains?
Over my eleven years as an educator, I have gained a wealth of invaluable experiences and perspectives. I have worked in three outstanding districts, worked with amazing teachers and leaders, and most importantly spent the majority of my time with over a thousand unique and inspiring students. Like most, I started my career as an excited novice teacher- living in my parents house and making more money than I ever had before. This was the life! But as my friends and family members began to advance in their careers- earning promotions and bonuses, enjoying lavish business dinners, traveling around the country for conferences and conventions- I felt myself losing that initial excitement. I couldn’t keep up with the conversations. When I told people what I did, I was often quickly dismissed with an uninterested, “Oh yeah, my (blank) is a teacher too”. Eventually, I also started viewing myself as “just a teacher”. And before I knew it, I was showing signs of becoming the type of teacher I never wanted to be- bitter and uninspired. I didn’t think I would be able to spend the rest of my life as a teacher and began considering other professions. This disenfranchised mindset, one in which an increasing number of educators find themselves, is the real “dark side” of the profession.
But then something happened. Maybe it was the birth of my daughter. Maybe it was my wife’s consistent faith and belief that I am destined to achieve great things. Maybe it was the unexpected invitation to a high school graduation party for a student who struggled mightily through my fifth grade class many years ago. Or maybe it was the wealth of experiences I’ve shared with the students that I have had the privilege of working with through the years. Whatever it was, I began to feel inspired like never before. I decided to take control of my career, of my life, and committed myself to becoming a leader in my profession. I wanted to learn. I wanted to grow. I started reading professional books, volunteered to mentor a student-teacher, then eventually decided to pursue my second masters degree- this time in Educational Leadership.
My experiences in this program felt nothing like the “dark side”. I was surrounded by accomplished, inspiring leaders who were committed to improving the education profession. My Twitter feed went from Yankee and Giant reporters and fantasy football experts to incredible educators from all over the world. I started participating in Twitter chats, presenting at local and state conferences, and going out of my way to learn as much as possible about my profession so that I could share with anyone who was willing to listen. I was growing and wanted to inspire others to do the same.
So as I sit back and await an opportunity for my first official leadership position, I am enjoying my time as a teacher like never before. I am encouraging growth in my students as well as my colleagues. I want to be an example of how great this profession can be. I don’t need a title to be a leader, and neither do you. This post isn’t about convincing others to become an administrator, it is about encouraging others to be leaders in their profession. Set goals for yourself, learn and try new things, take risks, and most importantly, share your skills and experiences with others. We are all in control of our own journey; and if you are not moving forward in that journey, then you are moving backward.
