The IU School of Education is launching an online program in Summer 2023 designed to support classroom teachers who are seeking leadership development opportunities. The Teacher Leader Pathway provides classroom teachers with two years of classroom experience an opportunity to acquire important leadership skills that create opportunities for professional advancement. These skills translate directly to the work of instructional coaches, school administrators and central office administrators. 

“Research shows that providing classroom teachers with opportunities for professional advancement is one of the best ways to retain teachers in the profession,” said Chad Lochmiller, associate professor of educational leadership and chair of the Department of Educational Leadership and Policy Studies, which hosts the pathway for the IU School of Education. “Teachers who feel empowered in their schools and supported in their growth are more likely to stay and that is key to solving the state’s teacher shortage.” 

The Teacher Leader Pathway leverages IU Expand, Indiana University’s portal to professional education, meaning any classroom teacher can apply to the pathway program. The cost for the entire Teacher Leader Pathway is $2,250. Candidates pay $750 for each IU Expand course or $250 per course module. The cost can be paid for by the individual or their school district, and districts can host cohorts at a discounted rate. Upon completion of each module, teachers earn digital badges that signify their accomplishments in the TLP. School districts that see an IU badge should have confidence that the teacher has not only acquired skills needed to be effective as leaders but demonstrated that they can enact those skills in their practice. 

“We are excited that this new program provides teachers with a flexible, affordable and innovative approach to acquiring leadership skills to help them advance in their careers in education,” said Anastasia (Stacy) Morrone, dean of the School of Education.

Development of the TLP began last year and was supported by partners at the Central Indiana Education Service Center (CIESC). State leaders, superintendents, principals, and faculty all contributed to the content of the Pathway. Modules include instructional videos, cases, and readings that are designed to illuminate teacher leadership practices. The curriculum hinges on IU’s leadership pillars of equity, improvement, innovation and growth. 

We are excited to partner with several local school districts to develop and implement this initiative. Our school partnerships are a key component of this program bridging leadership theory and field practice,” said Michele Moore, Clinical Assistant Professor.  

For more details about the TLP, please visit our website. If you are interested in joining the program, contact educlead@iu.edu.