Discussion: Why Does This Matter?

Top 10 Leader in Special Education

Evidence

collaboration

Effective leaders are collaborative (Gerpott, et al., 2020). Collaboration is critical for teachers especially in leadership positions. When we collaborate with others we are able to see the views of other professionals and able to make more effective decisions. 

empathetic

When we as leaders are empathetic, we are ensuring our followers that we care about them and their success  (Frei  & Morriss, 2020).

data-driven decision making

Effective and successful leaders steer from making decisions based on emotions or feelings. By making decisions based on data, leaders make decisions using the following six-step process: data collection, organizing, analyzing, summarizing, synthesizing and prioritizing (Wang, 2019).

accountability

Effective leaders hold themselves as well as their followers accountable (Lowenhaupt, et al., 2016). Although accountability isn’t always an appreciated aspect in any professional role, accountability ensures teachers and leaders are following all district, state and federal regulations and laws.

deepening learning

In an effort to lead, we must deepen learning within ourselves and our followers. Deepening learning is achieved by: establishing learning goals, building precision and shifting our practice (Fullan & Quinn, 2016). As we deepen learning, we are becoming more well rounded in our professional and personal lives. 

modeling learning

Great leaders teach through modeling aspects such as: professionalism, points of craft and life lessons (Finkelstein, 2018).

communication

Within any professional practice, communication is critical. Leaders must communicate effectively as well as foster an environment which embraces and encourages communication (Fullan & Quinn, 2016).

motivational

Leaders that are motivational create an environment in which their followers feel empowered and confident within themselves and their work. Followers of leaders who are motivational tend to take a personal interest in their work (Peyton, et al, 2019). 

empowering

The first step in becoming an empowering leader is trust, which includes the three following aspects: authenticity, logic and empathy (Frei  & Morriss, 2020). When leaders empower their followers, they help build their confidence to be better versions of themselves. 

passionate 

When leaders are passionate about their work, they are more likely to flourish in their ability to lead (Sabre Cherkowski, et al., 2020).