When you find your “why” in the process of figuring out what you are supposed to do in life it brings you strength to persevere no matter what comes up against you. You can lead if you are relentless! I was told throughout my teaching career that if I don't pass the praxis then I should find another profession but I didn't give up. I knew I could do it and I hope this episode helps you understand that you can do it too!

The journey to leadership starts with a champion mindset!

Components to remember:
-Defining Leadership
-Leadership Principles
-Building Relationships
-Slaying the Giants
-Make the Blueprint

You have to start with heart when leading. If your missing heart the journey can't begin.

The heart of a teacher demonstrates just this “Good teaching cannot be reduced to technique, good teaching comes from the identity and integrity of the teacher. Great leaders are the teachers themselves in the classroom. They live it, breathe it, be it every day with students. They have the most connection with the community and parents. Does it really take a Master's degree to be a great leader? No, it takes self-worth, love, passion, joy, and growth each and every day to be a great leader. Being a great leader starts with being a great teacher.

Welcome to Episode 1 of Teacher to Leader.
It all starts with you. You have to have the mindset to LEAD. LEAD stands for Leadership, Educate, Action, and Development. Find an exceptional leadership program that will teach you what leadership is and give you hands-on experience. I recommend North Carolina State Principal Preparation program, which I am currently in, and family I am impressed with this program's structure. There are many programs to attend, but I want to encourage you to pick the top leadership programs. The next word is educate which means that you should strive every day to educate yourself about leading with articles, magazines, reflections, research, and more. Knowledge is power in leadership, and if you don't like to read then, you won't succeed. Educate yourself on the decisions your leader makes learn how to lead like a champion. Never be afraid to ask questions. Action is the next word, which means take action and apply for a program. Research your best options in your school district. Ask your leader “what is the best route you should take to begin your administration or leadership degree. Action also requires you to read and understand the Standards developed for Executives. The more you know going into leadership the better, you will be through the process. Always trust the process. The last word is Development, which is where you gain a total understanding of who you are as a leader. Create a leadership philosophy that gives you a vision and mission for leading. Understand your morals and values in leadership. Define what ethics look like in leadership. Develop goals that will help you grow daily. Develop and understand “why” you want to lead.

If you find yourself unaware of your ability to lead then you should take on a leadership role in your position and measure the growth you make in a new capacity. Most of us never lead because we tell ourselves we can’t but if we remember "Dreams do come true! It's up to you to make it happen” then we will take that first step in the journey.

The Teacher to Leader podcast is a show created for teachers who aspire to break the chains that hold them back from leading in education. The journey to becoming a leader is a continuous learning process. I will encourage you to start this journey and I will show you how to see your purpose in leadership. Let's L-E-A-D (Leadership, Educate, Action, Development)!