Currently, I’m taking EDL/500 through the University of Phoenix. This is the fourth blog entry that serves as a type of reflection journal for class.

Of the major leadership theories discussed in class, I would have to categorize myself into the participative leadership theory category. To explain this, the theory comes down to the tenant that the opinions and thoughts of others should be considered during decision-making. I think this is best seen in the classroom. During weekly planning and daily lessons, teachers adjust the pace of a lesson, the flow of information, and the level of content depth based on student feedback. It would be wrong to move forward without proficient understanding. So, a teacher circles back and reteaches as needed. I think this is a good analogy to use with leadership. Although 100% consensus if difficult to achieve, a good teacher leader will strive to find common ground with co-workers and students to accomplish a task or goal. This kind of participatory inclusion is very much needed in the educational setting. It allows teachers and other stakeholders to have a hand in the decision-making process.

This leadership style is of great benefit to all teachers. Specifically at Thurmont Middle School, this is a needed trait for group settings and meetings. It is highly important to reach consensus and take other teachers contributions into account in team meetings, student concerns meetings, and administrative or special education meetings. With an approach to participatory leadership, the professional minds and veteran skills of teachers can best be taken into account and used to benefit students.