Educators as Leaders: How do you define leadership?

by Beth Schultz, Maine Educator

Does this definition of leadership resonate with you?

A leader is anyone who holds her- or himself accountable for finding potential in people and processes.

Brené Brown, research professor and author of several best-selling books, defines leadership as such in her most recent book, Daring Greatly. Brown writes that we live in a culture of scarcity. As a result, we feel like we never have enough. We never have enough knowledge, enough stuff, and what is most alarming is that we think and feel that we are never enough. Therefore, we become scared and shut down. We blame, become overly critical, and close off those parts of us that are open to change, innovation, creativity, and truly seeing others.  

It’s very hard to admit it, isn’t it?

Many in education feel the need to be in control…in control of the knowledge that is shared, how classrooms are structured, how learning and student behavior are managed, and how to ensure students meet standards. However, once we recognize that the world’s knowledge base is expanding exponentially, and that our students are hungry for authenticity and connection, then, I believe, we, as educators, can become creative, innovative, compassionate, and courageous again.

After thirty years in education as a teacher and administrator, I have witnessed countless teachers overcome multiple obstacles to do just that. They listen to their students, empathize, support them, and challenge them to be their best. Our culture has shifted: we need to be more explicit and direct about making sure there is a foundation of trust and honesty, and that essential connections are established and nurtured.

I think most of us can agree with Brown when she writes: “Connection is the energy created between people when they feel seen, heard, valued; when they can give and receive without judgment.”

This summer, as we take a break from the daily demands and stresses of school life, I encourage you to check Brown’s website. Or, check her TEDx presentations:

Brené Brown: The Power of Vulnerability

Brené Brown: On Listening to Shame

You also might download her “Daring Greatly Leadership Manifesto” found on her website. If you do, I bet you’ll print it and post it in your classrooms next year.

Educators are leaders. We hold ourselves accountable for finding potential in people and processes. Because we do, we are life-long learners…with our students, their parents, and our colleagues.

 Let me close with a familiar Theodore Roosevelt quote: 

The credit belongs to the man who is actually in the arena, whose face is marred by dust and sweat and blood; who strives valiantly; who errs…and if he fails, at least fails while daring greatly.

Happy Summer!