DES MOINES – Gov. Terry E. Branstad and Lt. Gov. Kim Reynolds today were joined by Iowa Department of Education Director Brad Buck at their weekly news conference to announce the administration’s second Iowa Teacher and Principal Leadership Symposium on Monday, August 4, 2014. The purpose of the symposium is to continue the public conversation about the critical role teacher and principal leadership will play as Iowa continues to work to give students a world-class education.
“Iowa’s landmark transformational education reform package of 2013 sets the stage for Iowa to again be the leader in educational excellence,” said Branstad. “Our children are counting on us to give them an effective education so they are prepared for the careers of tomorrow. We look forward to a continued dialogue with Iowa’s exceptional teachers and principals as we continue to implement Iowa’s teacher leadership program.”
The second Iowa Teacher and Principal Leadership Symposium will be held Monday, August 4, 2014, at Des Moines Area Community College in the FFA Enrichment Center.
“Already we’re seeing school districts like Central Decatur and Saydel implementing innovative teacher leadership programs in their classrooms. We look forward to hearing about lessons learned from leaders of those districts,” said Reynolds. “Better utilizing teacher leadership will strengthen instruction in every class room, helping our children achieve educational excellence. The program will also attract and retain a stronger teaching force by offering more opportunities for advancement without stepping outside the classroom.”
Thirty-nine school districts, with about one-third of Iowa students, in both urban and rural areas, will be in the first group to implement the program.
“We have a great opportunity unfolding in Iowa’s schools, and I’m confident we’ll make the most of it,” said director Brad Buck. “Iowa’s teacher leadership and compensation system stands to be truly transformational by helping us implement other key reforms, including high state academic standards, so Iowa students are prepared for college or career training. The program undoubtedly will improve entry into the teaching profession, foster collaboration among teachers and rewards excellence in the classroom with career pathways.”
