Effective educational leaders understand and demonstrate competence in the teacher standards under s. PI 34.002.
The Teacher Standards Standard emphasizes the importance of educational leaders deeply understanding and modeling the professional standards expected of teachers. It reflects the belief that effective leadership begins with instructional credibility and a commitment to the same principles of excellence, equity, and reflection that guide classroom practice. Leaders must not only be familiar with the teacher standards but they must embody them in their daily work to foster a culture of professional integrity and continuous growth.
This standard is a reminder that educational leadership is grounded in teaching. It requires fluency in instructional design, assessment literacy, culturally responsive pedagogy, and ethical practice. Leaders must be able to coach, mentor, and evaluate teachers through a lens that honors the complexity of teaching and supports professional development. Demonstrating competence in these standards, builds trust with faculty and ensures that leadership decisions are pedagogically sound.
Leaders must use the teacher standards to guide instructional feedback, professional learning plans, and school-wide initiatives. Doing this will align teacher collaboration with district expectations and student needs. By aligning leadership with instructional practice, we reinforce the importance of evidence-based instruction.
This standard also calls for leaders in my district to ensure that teacher competencies include cultural understanding, historical awareness, and the ability to integrate Indigenous knowledge systems. We must advocate for professional development that helps teachers understand the importance of culturally inclusive curriculum, trauma-informed practices, and equip them to teach in ways that affirm Indigenous identity and promote healing. This will create more inclusive and supportive instructional practices and build strong relationships with students and families.
This standard also means holding oneself accountable to the same expectations set for teachers. Leaders must demonstrate ethical behavior, maintain high expectations for all learners, and engage in continuous improvement. When administrators participate in professional development alongside teachers, it fosters a sense of shared purpose and mutual respect.
Ultimately, demonstrating competence in the teacher standards is about modeling what we expect, supporting what we value, and leading with authenticity. It ensures that leadership is not removed from the classroom but deeply connected to the work of teaching and learning. This standard reminds us that we are servant leaders that facilitate environments that reflect the same commitment to equity, excellence, and cultural responsiveness that we ask of our educators.
Artifacts:
Artifact Introduction : This artifact was developed for EDG 6120 as a reflection of my learning and understanding as it relates to curriculum, instruction, and assessment. It demonstrates a strong understanding of the Teacher Standards as it shows that education is an endeavor of life long learning and improvement. Educational leadership is a commitment to supporting the growth of all educators. By supporting educators in their instructional practices and building staff capacity around curriculum, instruction, and assessment, I create a robust environment of shared purpose and understanding. Ensuring that teacher voice is heard and supported, and development opportunities bolster engagement in improvement efforts, ensures that administration and staff are connected to a shared sense of responsibility.
Name: Assessment Leadership Reflection
Course: EDG 6120 Teacher and Leader Assessment Designed for Continuous Learning (DCA)
Date: Dec 13th, 2025
Role: Independent Assignment
Feedback: 100/100 Dr. Christine Scudella –Beautiful testament to your learning and growth Jen.
Thank you for your thoughtful end-of-course reflection. Your responses clearly reflect growth in your understanding of data, assessment, and instructional leadership, as well as increased confidence in leading data-informed conversations.
I appreciate your articulation of the values that will guide your continued leadership and the intentional next steps you have identified. Your personal vision demonstrates a strong commitment to equity, continuous learning, and improvement.
Thank you for your consistent contributions throughout the course. I wish you all the best as you continue to grow as an aspiring educational leader and apply this learning in your professional practice.