In a recent conversation with my former principal, I articulated for the first time something that I’d known subconsciously, which is that my teaching career consists of two distinct phases—before and after being a Teach Plus teacher leader.
It is entirely possible to be a very effective teacher who only stays within the four walls of a classroom. However, when I stepped out of those walls, and out of my district, and learned about the larger picture of which my role was a part, I became more effective because I was more aware. Knowing how and why decisions get made helped me understand (if not fully embrace) policy changes. And when I was fortunate enough to be selected to participate in Teach Plus, my world completely changed.
Under tremendous guidance from stalwarts in education, and alongside some of the strongest teachers in Massachusetts, I was able to elevate my teaching to heights I did not know I could reach. But beyond that, I felt informed and empowered to be in the conversations that helped shape what the profession will become. It is so much more productive for teachers to shape the happening, rather than the result happening to them. Having conversations with state leaders and creating policy proposals helps fill out the vision of what it means to be a teacher and invigorates me, inspiring me to move on with the work. I was able to contribute to the decision-making process within my district because of my training, and was able to set an example for my colleagues to have their voices heard as well.
Presently, I have moved to a curriculum director position, but my years of experience with teacher leadership means I bring with me an awareness of how important teacher voice is when it comes to the decisions that I now make. None of that would have been possible without the guidance of Teach Plus, and I maintain a connection with the organization so I can be a part of the growth of so many more ambitious teachers looking to make a bigger mark on their worlds and their kids.
