PMP501: Developing Teacher Leaders with Dr. Chris Jochum

A Quick Note to Listeners:

Before this week’s interview, Will Parker and Jen Schwanke take some time to answer a listener question. This week’s question is:

I’ve been leading short-handed with an Assistant Principal on leave and without the kind of support I’ve wanted from my central office. Any advice for wrapping up a school year strong when I’m feeling tired and discouraged?

Listen in to hear their response!

Meet Chris Jochum:

Dr. Chris Jochum is the founder and CEO of CJ Leadership Solutions. He is a nationally recognized speaker, trainer, and coach who believes leadership is about influence, not titles. Chris works with organizations across the U.S. and abroad to strengthen culture, climate, and leadership at every level.

He also serves as Professor and Chair of Teacher Education at Fort Hays State University, leading a large teacher preparation program. Over nearly three decades in education, he has worked in K-12 and higher education, beginning his career teaching Spanish and English as a Second Language in public schools, and later holding faculty roles at the University of Central Missouri and the University of Nebraska at Kearney. Chris’s research centers on leadership development and the value of study abroad. He hosts The Department Chair Leadership Podcast and is the author of The Department Chair: A Practical Guide to Effective Leadership, and You Don’t Have to Leave to Lead: A Practical Guide to Teacher Leadership.

The Foundation of Teacher Leadership:

Dr. Jochum emphasizes that every school is a reservoir of untapped potential, akin to a diamond mine waiting to be discovered. He shares a compelling analogy about an African farmer who searched far and wide for diamonds, unaware that his own land was rich with them. Similarly, schools possess hidden leadership capabilities among their educators. By creating an environment that encourages teachers to step into leadership roles, schools can increase student achievement and improve faculty morale.

Inviting Teachers into Leadership:

Will Parker recounts a conversation with a principal who, despite his best intentions, had not actively invited teachers to participate in leadership discussions. This highlights a common issue where leaders may feel protective of their staff, inadvertently excluding them from decision-making processes. Dr. Jochum stresses that inviting teachers into these discussions can unlock their potential, allowing them to contribute to school improvement in meaningful ways.

Practical Strategies for Identifying and Supporting Teacher Leaders:

Dr. Jochum outlines several key strategies for identifying and nurturing teacher leaders:

• Model Leadership: Leaders should demonstrate the behaviors they wish to see in their teachers. By modeling effective leadership, principals can set a standard for their staff.
• Share the Vision: Clearly communicate the importance of empowering teachers and encourage them to take ownership of their roles in leadership.
• Provide Support: Acknowledge that not everyone will be on board with new initiatives, but encourage open dialogue and support among staff.

Insights from Future Educators:

Dr. Jochum also sheds light on the perspectives of current education students, emphasizing the importance of communication between teachers and their leaders. He advises principals to foster an environment where new teachers feel comfortable expressing their challenges and uncertainties. By reassuring them that making mistakes is part of the learning process, leaders can create a more supportive atmosphere.

The Credo for Teacher Leaders:

One of the highlights of the discussion is Dr. Yokum’s “Credo for Teacher Leaders,” which outlines essential beliefs and commitments for effective leadership:

It’s not about me, but it starts with me.

• I must give up to go up.
• I’m in the people business, and people are messy.
• Other people’s irresponsibility will oftentimes become my responsibility.
• I will never have a perfect group of people, and they will never have a perfect leader.
• I must be vulnerable.
• Conflict happens every day, and that’s okay.
• Relationships and influence are not optional.

These principles serve as guiding values for educators stepping into leadership roles, fostering a culture of collaboration and understanding.

Staying Connected:

If you would like to learn more about Chris Jochum and his work, you can visit his website https://cjleadership.com/.

The post PMP501: Developing Teacher Leaders with Dr. Chris Jochum appeared first on Principal Matters.