Program Goals
“ Envision and guide organizational change.” Staying current with technology and methodology trends are key to guiding organizational change. Use of subscriptions to professional organizations like ASCD and blogs and social media can help oneself stay up to date with technology and trends. It is these concepts which will be filter to the teachers and then students so that they can be prepared for tomorrow’s jobs.
“Communicate effectively, engage constituents, develop people and build community.” Allowing for transparent decision making and information dispensation throughout the process is key to effective communication. Also, letting your audience, partners, and support staff know that you are doing your job for unselfish reasons is an effective way of building community.
“Advocate and promote equity for diverse populations and respect for individuals.” Christian love motivates me to share the Gospel message with as many people as I can. Furthermore, understanding that I am a servant-leader means that I put aside my wants and desires to be as much of a benefit to others as possible.
“Integrate theory, data, research and ethical standards into the context of one’s practice through continuous learning.” Study of updated state standards in curriculum together with leading trends in technology, medical research, and pedagogy will allow me to be open to new ideas and implement them. Belonging to a professional development group will also aid in this endeavor.
Program Dispositions
“Values change as the source of opportunity for improvement.” I have heard it said that insanity is doing the same thing and expecting different results. In a field where you work with people, it is natural that elements of that field will change as people do. I do not seek change because it is fun, only when it is an opportunity to improve.
“Displays the ability to understand people and relationships and is receptive to the ideas of others.” Listening to people is one of the only ways to understand new ideas. Very few people are innovators, capable of inventing new ways to accomplish tasks and solve problems. By being receptive to different perspectives you allow yourself to grasp new concepts and solutions.
“Shows a willingness to implement non-discriminatory access, accommodations and assessments.” Our school has had nondiscriminatory practices for many years. These will continue so that our school can reach as many young people as possible.
“Demonstrates empathic understanding of diversity in all domains.” I understand that all courses are equal in their importance, save for one. With the exception of religion, it is tempting to over-emphasize certain disciplines but it is important to remember that my likes and desires may not be shared by my students. This means that I must endeavor to provide excellent education in all classes I teach.
“Regularly reflects upon the philosophical assumptions, ethical principles and rationales that guide one’s practice.” God’s Word allows me to consistently evaluate my practices in the light of both his Law and Gospel. This is a comfort because social norms and mores may shift and change, His Word will always require and offer the same things.
“Understands oneself as a learner and values learning as a core capacity.” This is why I’m enrolled in this program. I want to continue learning to improve my skills so that I can be a help to others to my maximum capability.
