What programs do you teach/oversee through the partnership between OAESA with Concordia University Chicago? What keeps you excited about it?
Through my role as chair of the partnership between OAESA with Concordia University Chicago, I oversee all leadership programs that are offered in Ohio. This includes teacher leadership offered as an endorsement only or as an endorsement embedded within a master’s or doctoral degree.
Our programs also include Ohio principal licensure as a stand-alone program or embedded within a master’s or doctoral degree, and Ohio superintendent licensure as a stand-alone program or embedded in a doctoral degree. Furthermore, we offer programs for Ohio educators who want to advance their knowledge base in a specific specialty area such as differentiated instruction.
How will your program better prepare/equip educators for the current climate, specifically with COVID-19 and the move to online/hybrid learning?
Since 2007, OAESA has been a pioneer in online learning formats for educators, and CUC has also been on the cutting edge as a brick and mortar institution offering innovative online degree options to educators. OAESA’s online learning opportunities have positively impacted educator professional learning for many years, thereby also having a positive influence on innovative approaches to online learning throughout the state.
As our educators engage in highly effective online learning strategies and platforms, they can apply this learning to their classrooms and school buildings. During these uncertain times, when learning platforms and strategies change quickly, our educators have a deep understanding of how to teach and lead effectively, whether virtually, hybrid, or in face-to-face formats.
Why did you decide to become a faculty member for OAESA with Concordia University Chicago? What sets this program apart from others?
The partnership between OAESA with Concordia University Chicago merges OAESA’s deep knowledge base of effective leadership practices with high quality and rigorous, yet flexible, graduate licensure and degree programs that are grounded in state and national standards.
As an Ohio principal, I was already a member of OAESA, and I found their support of administrators to be critical to my success as a principal. As I completed the Ph.D. program through the partnership, I came to realize just how much the program contributed to my knowledge base and effectiveness as a building leader.
When the opportunity arose to join the faculty of CUC and to chair this unique partnership, I was thrilled! I knew that, through this role, I would be able to expand my reach by having a positive impact on education and leadership practices throughout our state and beyond. This program is truly unique in that it connects our students to practitioners in the field and engages them with their professional organization (OAESA).
What is your professional background (including degrees) as an educator?
I completed my bachelor’s degree in elementary education at Ohio University and taught fifth grade in the Pickerington Local School District for 16 years. During that time, I completed my master’s degree in curriculum and instruction. As I continued to refine my professional practices and engage in various teacher leadership roles, building and district leaders began approaching me suggesting that I pursue an advanced degree and obtain principal licensure.
I found the OAESA and SAIL for Education in conjunction with Concordia University Chicago partnership and enrolled in the Ph.D. School Leadership degree program with Ohio principal licensure embedded. The principal licensure coursework was front-loaded, so I completed that licensure first. I then began serving as an elementary principal in a K-4 building while also completing the remainder of my doctoral program.
Tell us a little about yourself. Why did you become interested in education?
I always knew I wanted to be an educator. My mother was a teacher and my father served the public as a county health commissioner. They taught me from a very young age that our lives are made more meaningful by serving others. This commitment to service is woven into the fabric of who I am as an educator. I started my career as a fifth-grade teacher and progressed to serving as an elementary principal prior to moving into higher education.
I learned very quickly that students wouldn’t learn from me unless they were certain that I cared for them and believed in their abilities. I was a champion for my students in the classroom and while serving as a principal, and I continue to champion the students who I serve today at OAESA with Concordia University Chicago.
What would you tell prospective students about yourself? What’s something that students and colleagues should know about you?
I want prospective students to know that I am dedicated to ensuring that our programs provide exceptional preparation for school and district-level leadership. I live out my commitment to serving the students and educators of Ohio through my work with the partnership. Further, all faculty and staff at Concordia University Chicago commit themselves to all aspects of service to students, from the time students enter the program to graduation and beyond.
What advice do you have for students interested in pursuing their graduate education degree? How can people stand out in this field?
Educators who are considering the pursuit of an advanced degree must evaluate their future career goals and plan accordingly. Engaging in discussions with colleagues and fellow educators can help to clarify personal strengths and potential future goals.
For example, Ohio principal licensure opens doors to diverse administrative positions, and this can vary from district to district. Positions for which districts may require principal licensure include special education coordinators, technology specialists, or instructional coaches. I recommend that educators find out more about what is required in their specific district as they choose a program that will help them to attain future career goals.
In terms of standing out in the field, it is important for aspiring leaders to take on additional leadership roles and opportunities when they become available. Getting involved within the school, district, and community at large helps aspiring leaders to become known and begin creating a professional reputation for themselves. Also, getting involved in OAESA with Concordia University Chicago is a great way to deepen involvement both at the local level and statewide.
Is there anything else you would like to share?
I strive to make myself available to answer questions that potential and current students may have at any time. If you would like to discuss your career goals and how one of our OAESA with Concordia University Chicago programs might be beneficial for you, please reach out at any time. I can be reached at 614-557-9209 or through email at rebecca.hornberger@cuchicago.edu. Thank you for all you do to serve Ohio’s most valuable resource – our students!