Program Objectives

The goal of the graduate program in teacher education is to prepare teachers to meet the advanced standards set by the state of North Carolina for teacher leaders as shown below. Emphasis throughout is on empowering teachers with the knowledge, skills and dispositions necessary to become informed leaders, reflective practitioners and outstanding contributors to their profession.

Standard 1: Teaching Leadership

Teacher leaders assume the roles and responsibilities of collaborative leaders in schools and communities. They demonstrate leadership in their classrooms, schools and professional organizations; they advocate for students and effective educational practices and policies; and they are role models for ethical leadership.

Standard 2: Respectful Educational Environments

Teacher leaders establish a positive and productive environment for a diverse population of students, their families and the community. They are knowledgeable about cultures and global issues and how they are contextualized locally. They help colleagues develop effective strategies for students with special needs and encourage positive, constructive relations among colleagues and students.

Standard 3: Content and Curriculum Expertise

Teacher leaders have a deep knowledge of the subjects they teach and understanding of curriculum theory and development. They value collaboration and the interconnectedness of disciplines. They understand the importance of curriculum relevance in engaging students in content.

Standard 4: Student Learning

Teacher leaders facilitate student learning through evidence-based practice informed by research. They understand and apply research in child and adolescent development, cognitive development, and general and specialized pedagogy. They encourage critical reading, writing and thinking in the learning process. They foster instructional and evaluation methods that embrace variety and authenticity.

Standard 5: Reflection

Teacher leaders contribute to systematic, critical analysis of learning in their classrooms and beyond. They are lifelong learners who model and support ongoing professional development. They embrace critical thinking, problem solving and innovation.