Teacher Leader Academy

Purpose of the Program

The GEMS Teacher Leader Academy (TLA) is a 12 month, practice-based leadership development experience designed for educators ready to step into leadership while still thriving in the classroom. Through interactive sessions, peer collaboration, and real-world application, teacher leaders will gain the skills to coach peers, lead effective meetings, and drive instructional excellence- all while fostering equity and school culture. 

Program Components

The GEMS Teacher Leader Academy blends leadership theory, peer collaboration, and hands-on practice- all grounded in real classroom experience. 

1) In-Person Kickoff

Start the journey with a powerful 2-day launch focused on vision-setting, community-building, and exploring your leadership identity.

2) Biweekly Leadership PD Sessions (Virtual)

Live, interactive sessions held every other week where teacher leaders engage with core leadership concepts and practice essential moves through discussion, role-play, and feedback.

3) Competency-Based Focus

Each session aligns to one or more of our 10 Teacher Leader Competencies — the critical mindsets and skills needed to lead from the classroom.

4) Practice + Feedback Cycles

Teacher leaders apply strategies in their schools, then reflect and refine through peer and facilitator feedback.

5) Coaching & Collaboration

Opportunities for individual reflection and small-group collaboration, with optional coaching sessions tailored to specific goals.

Teacher Leader Competencies

1) Instructional Expertise and Modeling

Demonstrates deep content knowledge and exemplary instructional practices. Models high-impact instruction and supports colleagues in adopting best practices that drive student achievement.

2) Peer Coaching and Feedback

Provides timely, actionable, and supportive feedback to colleagues. Uses observation, coaching cycles, and data to promote reflective teaching and professional growth.

3) Team Leadership and Facilitation

Leads grade-level, content-area, or cross-functional teams effectively. Facilitates collaborative meetings that are structured, inclusive, and focused on student outcomes.

4) Culture and Climate Champion

Upholds and models school culture expectations. Builds positive peer and student relationships and fosters a classroom and team environment of trust, equity, and belonging.

5) Data-Driven Instruction

Analyzes classroom and school-wide data to identify trends and inform instructional decisions. Supports peers in using data to set goals, plan lessons, and improve student outcomes.

6) Professionalism and Growth Mindset

Operates with integrity, professionalism, and a growth mindset. Engages in continuous learning and models commitment to self and team development.

7) Effective Communication

Communicates clearly and professionally with colleagues, administrators, and families. Adapts messaging based on audience and medium and ensures alignment with school priorities.

8) Equity-Centered Practice

Recognizes and addresses inequities in the classroom and school environment. Promotes culturally responsive teaching and inclusive practices among peers.

9) Time and Task Management

Balances teaching responsibilities with leadership tasks effectively. Prioritizes and manages time to support both student learning and peer support without compromising either.

10) Change Leadership and Initiative

Embraces and leads through change. Proactively identifies opportunities for improvement, pilots new ideas, and builds buy-in for school initiatives among colleagues.