Representatives from Arkansas Tech University and the Russellville School District are working together to cultivate the next generation of educational leadership personnel for K-12 schools in our area.
Seventeen teachers from the Russellville School District have participated in the inaugural Partnership for Leadership Development program through the Arkansas Tech Center for Leadership and Learning during the 2011-12 academic year.
“Building level leadership requires an understanding of influences both internal and external to the schools,” said Dr. Mary Gunter, dean of the Arkansas Tech Graduate College and professor of educational leadership. “Through these monthly seminars, individuals have the opportunity to explore their leadership philosophy, styles and possible leadership roles.”
Among the teachers participating in the program this year are Corey Adaire, George Brad Beaty, Laura Binz, James Burnett, Y. Eric Christensen, Beth Cooper, Tracy Dunn, Sandra Green, Amber Hodges, Debbie Hudson, Krista Malin, Tracy McCullar, Laura Mills, Carol Patterson, Amber Russell, Krystal Shipp and Misty Tally.
Gunter said the continuing education opportunity is valuable to the teachers and the school district.
“At a time when there is a shortage of people to serve in school leadership roles, particularly in the role of principal, school districts are looking within their organizations to consider people for school leadership,” said Gunter. “We are working with the Russellville School District to create a pool of qualified individuals to serve as school counselors, curriculum leaders and principals.”
Several members of the first Partnership for Leadership Development cohort are participating at such a level that enables them to earn three hours of graduate credit that can be applied toward a Master of Education degree from Arkansas Tech.
“The Russellville School District is working to build leadership capacity within its teachers,” said Alene Bynum, assistant superintendent of personnel and instruction with the Russellville School District. “We want to grow our own leaders and administrators. We’ve found that is the best way to meet our school leadership needs.”
For more information about opportunities through the Arkansas Tech Graduate College, call (479) 968-0398 or send e-mail to gradcollege@atu.edu.
Click here to visit the Arkansas Tech Graduate College online.
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