Educational Leadership Philosophy

Leaders are unique individuals who provide a caring, nurturing, and inspiring atmosphere. Every educator has a set of beliefs that influence what and how they teach students, known as their philosophy of education. Educational leaders also have philosophies of education, that informs of their roles, leadership methods, inspirations, and purpose. As an educational leader, it is my goal to ensure all students and staff meet their fullest potential by providing them with a safe environment, supporting them, and encouraging their successes. I believe that as a leader I should serve as a facilitator, I should allow opportunities for collaboration, and promote lifelong learning.

Keywords: leader, philosophy, nurturing, facilitator, collaboration

The role is to inspire, motivate, and possibly challenge the practice or pedagogy of educators. Every educator takes on some type of leadership role. Teachers are the leaders inside of their classrooms. Principals are the leaders of their schools. All educators, no matter the title of their role, work together to make a difference in the lives of students. It is important that educational leaders work together with stakeholders to create positive relationships with a variety of people in a variety of ways. This opens opportunities for resources, and allows for the leader to be open to new ideas. Relationships are not just built for student growth, leaders are also mentors, coaches, and support to teachers as well. The educational leader relationship should provide the school facility with positive rewards, but first a relationship must be built between the two. A community has to be established inside of the school and throughout the community. Students, staff, and all stakeholders must know that the educational leader cares about the students, the voice of the stakeholders, and the community. The quote that you hear about teachers and students, “They have to know you care, before they care about what you know”, I find this to be true in a leadership position as well. As a leader, once you have gained the respect and trust of all stakeholders, it is important that you do not lose it for the sake of the school. It is the responsibility of the school leader to reach outside of the school to build these relationships. Teachers feel responsible to reach students inside of their classroom and close achievement gaps, but they cannot do this alone, but with the help and trainings inside of the district and communities we can begin to work on closing these gaps