Leadership Strategies in the Realm of Education
University of West Alabama Offers Online Education Specialist (EdS) Instructional Leadership Program
The University of West Alabama has launched an online Education Specialist (EdS) Instructional Leadership program, designed to prepare educators for leadership and administrative roles. This advanced degree program focuses on developing skills to improve instructional programs and demonstrate leadership in educational settings.
Preparing Future Educational Leaders
Candidates for this program must hold a Class A Professional Educator Certificate in Instructional Leadership or a related Class A leadership certificate, have recent experience in their specialization area, a valid master's-level Elementary Education certification, and meet graduate admission standards.
The program emphasizes mastery of curriculum and teacher education leadership concepts, demonstrated leadership ability specifically in instructional leadership, and preparation towards roles such as principals, superintendents, supervisors, or other educational administrative positions. Candidates are required to maintain a GPA of at least 3.25 within the program.
Developing Expertise in Instructional Leadership
The program covers a range of topics, including curriculum design, advanced educational research, school reform models, educational assessment, mentoring strategies, organizational leadership, and more. It is ideal for educators seeking a post-master's-level education, a Class AA Professional Certificate, and leadership positions in roles such as principal or administrator.
To identify and employ the best instructional practices, instructional leaders rely on research to ensure effectiveness. The program caters to individuals with specific goals or career paths, offering a specialized option for experienced educators seeking leadership positions.
Setting a Vision for Ambitious Instruction
The program aligns with general educational leadership goals, including setting goals for learning environments, recruiting qualified educators, and using data to improve student performance. It also focuses on improving the education system and instructional programs, applying leadership skills to foster accountability, achievement, and a student-centered learning environment, enhancing curriculum and instruction practices at an administrative level, and addressing challenges in education through effective communication and use of technology.
Empowering Teachers and Students
Students can complete the program in as few as one or two years. To further support students, each student is linked one-on-one with a mentor to build networks and develop better leadership skills. Parent and community support is a vital part of building a support structure that teachers and students can rely on.
Effective Instructional Leadership Practices
Six key instructional leadership practices that are effective in positively influencing student learning are set by New Leaders: setting a vision for ambitious instruction, upgrading curriculum and resources, creating systems for data-driven instruction, providing equitable access for interventions, developing systems for professional development and collaboration, and offering coaching to teachers.
The online EdS Instructional Leadership program at the University of West Alabama helps candidates develop expertise and leadership competencies, preparing them to make a significant impact in the educational field. For more information about the program, visit the mentioned website.
[1] University of West Alabama. (n.d.). Education Specialist in Instructional Leadership. Retrieved from https://www.uwa.edu/academics/college-of-education-and-professional-studies/programs/education-specialist-instructional-leadership
[2] National Association of Secondary School Principals. (n.d.). The Principal's Role. Retrieved from https://www.nassp.org/resources-and-services/school-leadership/principals-and-administrators/the-principals-role/the-principals-role
- Pursuing the University of West Alabama's online Education Specialist (EdS) Instructional Leadership program equips candidates with the skills for personal growth and learning, aiming to prepare them for leadership roles in education with the ability to improve instructional programs and foster student-centered learning environments.
- The University of West Alabama's EdS Instructional Leadership program emphasizes learning and development, as it focuses on education-and-self-development, aligning with essential practices such as setting ambitious instructional visions, upgrading curriculum, and implementing effective communication and technology use, all geared towards positive student outcomes and comprehensive school improvement.
