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2024 MEA Forum: Unleashing Educator Leadership

 

 

Dr. Johnny Walker (TX '23) shares his journey from teaching second grade to stepping into instructional support and leadership roles. Under his leadership, Winona Middle School's rating rose from an ‘F’ during the 2018-19 school year to a ‘B’ in 2021-22. The introduction of a formal teacher leadership structure was one key difference. "It provides a strong framework for teachers to be able to support other teachers," he says of WMS' partnership with NIET. "Now we have dedicated time in the school day where teachers can move out of their classroom and support teachers. It provides the authority that teacher leaders need so that they are seen as authoritative figures on campus."

Another important aspect? Being focused on positive change. "I try to go to work every day thinking that I'll never be able to change what I'm willing to tolerate," Dr. Walker says. "Some school districts don't jump in all the way because they're not willing to confront those challenges. You have to hit them head-on."