Leading from the Classroom: Leadership as Influence

Dr. Kris Mitzner
Presenter
60
mins
Course length
Multi Device
Access from mobile or laptop
4.87
Course rating
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Description

How can your daily actions create a ripple effect that shapes school culture and student success? In today's schools, leadership does not just come from principals or administrators—it lives in the classroom. Teacher leadership is a powerful, often underutilized force that drives school improvement, fosters collaboration, and elevates instructional quality. Join Dr. Kris Mitzner for this thought-provoking and practical workshop as you explore how to lead from exactly where you are. Through real-world examples, guided journaling, and ripple mapping exercises, you will reflect on your leadership journey, identify your influence, and leave with a plan to lead with confidence and clarity. Whether it is initiating a cross-grade book buddy program, modeling SEL strategies for students, mentoring new colleagues, or sharing resources with your team, your influence as a teacher-leader matters. Leadership is not about titles—it is about choices, mindset, and impact.

Objectives

Identify examples of teacher leadership in everyday classroom settings. Explain how informal leadership contributes to instructional quality and school climate. Implement journaling and ripple mapping techniques to explore your leadership impact. Differentiate between formal leadership roles and the informal influence of teacher leaders. Assess the effectiveness of your current leadership actions and their impact on others. Design a leadership action plan to amplify your influence and support school improvement.

Key Take Aways

• Understand the difference between formal authority and teacher leadership—and how both play a role in school improvement. • Reflect on how your everyday actions influence school culture, relationships, and outcomes. • Explore real examples of classroom-based leadership in action—from SEL modeling to cross-grade initiatives. • Develop a personal leadership plan using ripple mapping, journaling, and practical tools for intentional influence

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Meet

Dr. Kris Mitzner

Dr. Kris Mitzner, with over 30 years of educational experience, has served as a principal and teacher from kindergarten to fifth grade. A seasoned public speaker, she’s presented at national conferences like ASCD and NASSP. Now retired, Kris focuses on writing, mentoring, speaking, and traveling.
Specializes In:
Retired Principal and School Improvement Coach

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