Brad Henry once wrote “A good teacher can inspire hope, ignite the imagination, and instil a love of learning”.
Their importance and the value teachers have in society are immeasurable and we need to acknowledge that as with many professions, teaching is a calling and not just a job. There are teachers that are so passionate about what they do: opening up the minds of the learners that have been placed in their care; sharing what they know of a particular subject matter; allowing learners to speak their mind / form opinions as well as modelling tolerance towards others.
It seems like female teachers has a very specific impact on their students. Not to take away anything from male teachers, as their role is just as important and complements their female colleagues perfectly.
With female teachers, their role includes being in a position that makes a positive impact on the gender relations in their respective communities, as well as the learners and society. Every community has its own unique set of challenges that will have a certain level of influence on what is done and how it is done – but it is possible as long as it is a collaborative approach.
Outside of family / caregivers / parents, female teachers are often the ones that see what issues are impacting learners, be it inside the learning environment or in the community (and their homes).
Their approach to matters is quite different from their male counterparts and the two can complement one another very well. Another important part is the leadership within the education system, this can “make or break” great teachers / their attitude and commitment to their work.
An article in Seen Magazine, explored the topic of empowering teachers and the role of leadership.
As a female leader, empower teachers in your school by:
- Clearly defining your vision
- Establishing procedures for exploring problems
- Providing resources for professional and personal development
- Filtering mandates and present expectations in alignment with their overriding vision
- Modelling, supporting, and promoting time spent in activities outside of school
- Encouraging teachers to seek professional partnerships and relationships outside the school
As a teachers seeking to be empowered you should:
- Decide what will make you different than the norm, the expectation, or the media hype
- Clearly define what you believe great teaching is
- be pro-active in your personal and professional development
- Filter information against your beliefs and hold fast to those beliefs
- Focus and devote time and attention to specific goals and objectives
- Share with your colleagues
Each person has a role to play and knowing the steps that need to be taken is a great place to start. (“Empowered teachers will change the world”; March 30, 2013).
Female teachers – they are mentors; innovators; a champion for the learners; passionate about academic excellence, not only in their students but in their learners and colleagues.
You might want to read more about the power teachers have.
