Joyce graduated from Thomas University with an Ed.S. in Teacher Leadership and currently works as a sixth-grade math teacher for a middle school in Georgia. Joyce boasts more than two decades as an educator and has taught across multiple grades and subjects, as well as holds multiple certifications. We asked her to share with us her time at Thomas University in the teacher leadership program.
Why did you want to work in education? What inspired you?
I have wanted to work in education since I was in third grade. I was inspired by my third-grade teacher. She was very caring and made learning fun. Her love for educating students sparked an interest in teaching. I found myself navigating back to my true love after starting a family. I was teaching preschool overseas in South Korea when I decided to go back to school and finish my education degree. I wanted to share my love of learning in a fun way for students of all ages.
Why did you choose Thomas University for your Ed.S. degree in teacher leadership?
I chose to get my Ed.S. degree in teacher leadership from Thomas University because it provided a convenient and cost-effective degree program. I loved the concept of the blended classroom instruction during the week and not having to take an admission test. Also, I wanted to complete my degree within a two-year time frame and increase my yearly salary. Thomas University allowed me to check off all of the reasons why I should go back to college and get another degree. I have no regrets. I’m glad I decided to get my Ed.S. from Thomas University.
What skills did you gain or sharpen through your program at Thomas University, and how do you use them today?
My coaching and mentoring skills have opened up opportunities to share innovative teaching practices. I have gained knowledge on how to effectively mentor teachers. As a mentor, I empathize and establish a rapport with my mentees. I tend to continuously reflect on my teaching style and pedagogy. I find myself automatically creating and implementing professional learning plans or providing topics for professional learning. I seek new ideas for teaching and learning through professional development. I provide support for my colleagues and put into practice the pedagogy, strategies, and philosophies that I have learned from my program at Thomas University.
How has your teacher leadership degree impacted you in terms of your current position or a position you’d like to attain in the future?
My teacher leadership degree has allowed me to be chosen for additional leadership roles at my school. I have been assigned several new teachers in the TAPP program. I am often asked to lead professional development and mentor beginning or new teachers at my school. I have a voice and I am being heard. My administrators often ask for my advice on various topics relating to our school improvement plan, improving student achievement, and professional learning communities. Also, it has opened up the opportunity for me to pursue leadership, coaching, or teaching positions at the collegiate level in the future.
What was a challenge you faced during your teacher leadership program, and who or what helped you overcome it?
The challenge I faced during the teacher leadership program was managing my time. It was difficult when I had deadlines at home, work, and school. I leaned on my family and my cohort. We were able to work out a schedule to get everything done. My family helped alleviate some stress of being “Super Mom”. A group of teachers in my cohort was experiencing the same problem. We held each other accountable and established additional work sessions along with deadlines to ensure all assignments were turned in on time.
What was the biggest takeaway from your teacher leadership program?
The biggest takeaway from my teacher leadership program was the accessibility of the professors. There were several times when I could not understand what was expected of me, especially with the GACE. I was apprehensive about asking for help. I spoke to my professors and they cleared up any misunderstandings that I had. I learned that I don’t have to be intimidated by my professors and that they are there to help me be successful. After I completed my degree, the professors were still accessible, provided guidance, and support as I polished off my GACE Tasks.
What would you tell (or what advice would you give) prospective students considering the Ed.S. teacher leadership degree program at Thomas University?
I would advise prospective students that are considering attaining an Ed.S. teacher leadership degree from Thomas University to establish relationships with the teachers in your cohort. This is critical. As a teacher leader, you will need to build relationships with your colleagues, which can lead to you having a better experience while attaining your degree. Your colleagues in your cohort will be able to help you navigate through the highs and lows of life, your teaching job, taking college courses, managing your time, and holding you accountable. Please don’t go in with the mindset of just attaining your degree without getting to know the teachers in your cohort.
Is there anything else you would like to share?
I would like to thank Thomas University for providing this opportunity for me to get my Ed.S. degree in Teacher Leadership. I have created long-lasting relationships with fellow teachers in my cohort. The teachers in my cohort have become a part of my extended family. Our families have experienced joy, pain, and sorrow throughout our time at TU, but we were able to lean on each other and provide support. We became a close-knit family, and we helped each other navigate through the trials of life to ensure that no one was left behind. We all graduated!