Graduation Date

5-2015

Document Type

Master's Thesis

Degree Name

Master of Science

Department or Program

Education

Department or Program Chair

Elizabeth Truesdell PhD

First Reader

Madalienne F. Peters, EdD

Abstract

In a school setting, teachers may serve as leaders as well as classroom teachers. In any school, principals are unable to run a school without the help of others. This help often comes from classroom teachers who are supporting student and school needs by taking on leadership roles. The focus of this study is to examine teacher perspectives on their leadership role in mentoring other teachers.

The research literature indicates that teacher leaders play an important role in any school setting. Teacher leaders must build their confidence in stepping into this role, supporting the principals in school operations, mentoring, and collaborating with others (Heleterbran, 2010).

The purpose of this study is to examine teacher perceptions of their role as mentors for others in their school setting. The participants in this study include teachers at a private elementary school. They were informed of the nature of the study and asked to volunteer and meet in a focus group, in which they are asked to respond to questions on their leadership role in mentoring other teachers.

Results indicate that teachers in this setting who participated in the focus group consider themselves teacher leaders who mentor their colleagues. Teachers need to be open to change, be able to listen and take advice from their colleagues. Implications of the research include encouraging principals to foster teacher leadership, specifically mentoring other teachers at the school environment.

Key Words: Teacher leaders, Mentor, Distributed Leadership

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