Final Reflections

Where do I even start?!? This course has been life-changing. It has been the most intense professional development activity I’ve undertaken, but what I’ve learned, and the professional growth I’ve undergone has been incredible. It believe that it’s true that what you get out of a program depends on how much effort you’ve put in.

This course surveys such a broad scope of topics, and I gained a wealth of information from from my peers. Having such a diverse group of professionals has been most incredible at demonstrating different view points and educational systems.

I’ve learned and applied new leadership strategies, instructional tools and techniques, and examined my own attitudes towards leadership, learning and professionalism. I would highly recommend this course to any teacher, whether or not they were interested in pursuing a position of leadership. 

By examining practices of leadership I’ve come to a better understanding and appreciation of the leaders in my school and for the incredible job that they do. I can’t wait to share this newfound knowledge and apply it to my teaching and leadership opportunities. 

I look forward to continuing my this learning journey and developing my leadership skills. My goals for this upcoming year are to hone my leadership skills through personal study and in small group settings, mentor new staff and continue to explore which leadership pathway I wish to take. I plan to host a PD session in August introducing our staff to the new Chromebooks and how to incorporate their use effectively in the classroom. In the longer term I hope to persue additional leadership training and opportunities at my school.

Reading List:
– “The Aspiring Principal 50 Critical Questions for New & Future School Leaders” by Baruti K. Kafele & other books by the same author
– “Dare to Lead” by Brene Brown

Programs & Courses:
– Leadership Part 2 & Specialist & Post-Graduate Certificate in Leadership from Queen’s University
– University of New Brunswick M.Ed. specializing in Educational Administration & Leadership

Leadership Opportunities:
– Host a workshop at the Canadian Reformed Teacher’s Conference
– Host various in-school PD sessions for staff on a variety of topics
– Mentor new teachers and support the school’s NTIP