Today’s schools need effective leadership to achieve positive student learning outcomes. There is a direct correlation between great leadership and the positive experience and performance of students. Good leadership comes from school principals, assistant principals and other leadership staff who support and encourage educators and their teaching practices. Those driven to be future leaders in our schools can be the ones to bring about enduring change.
If you’re a teacher with at least two years of professional experience and a teaching certificate, and you would like to pursue leadership roles, the online Master of Education (M.Ed.) in Educational Leadership program from Florida Gulf Coast University (FGCU) may be right for you. The specialized degree program provides the advanced understanding of leadership, school organization and management that you need to lead educators and improve learning outcomes for students in P-12 schools.
Benefits of Professional Development in Education Administration
Professional development is continuing education in one’s field to stay current on emerging trends and learn new skills. Some fields require professional development to keep certification or licensure, usually through additional learning opportunities. Even when not required, professionals who want to excel in their careers will usually explore development and training options. If you’re a new teacher or an aspiring school leader, it’s never too early to consider the benefits of professional development.
Investing in your development as a teacher and leader is an effective way to advance academic outcomes for your students and your professional growth. Keeping up with the latest trends and advancements in the field of education can set your students, school and staff up for success. An online educational leadership program like FGCU’s provides convenient, flexible and advanced professional development for educators along with the credential and preparation needed for career advancement.
What Will You Learn in an Educational Leadership Degree Program?
The online M.Ed. in Educational Leadership from FGCU provides expertise in the foundations of curriculum and instruction, school budgeting and reporting, human resources, and school law, emphasizing Florida state regulations. Coursework includes Data and Analysis in Education, Organizational Development, School Law, School Budgeting & Fin Reporting, Instructional Leadership, Human Resource Development, Tech for Educational Leaders, and more. Educators enrolled in the program will also participate in extensive professional internships.
This online degree program prepares you to pursue leadership careers in P-12 education, such as department chair, instructional coordinator, district administrative support staff and assistant principal. FGCU’s M.Ed. in Educational Leadership online degree aligns with the Florida Department of Education’s Educational Leadership Standards and leads to Level 1 Educational Leadership certification upon completion of coursework and internships, as well as passing the Florida Educational Leadership Exam (FELE).
What Makes a Great School Administrator and Leader?
School leaders use their management skills and educational prowess to align teaching staff with a shared mission and vision, focusing on improving the quality of education for students. The effective school leader sets clear expectations and goals for teachers, providing a roadmap for success. Here are a few top practices of great school leaders:
- Leading by example: Good leadership involves leading by example to create a positive, nurturing culture for the staff and students. A passionate leader is inspirational to everyone around them.
- Establishing a shared vision: A leader with a clear vision and the ability to effectively communicate it can connect with the entire school and community.
- Engaging with the community: A school leader who connects with their community and celebrates cultural differences ensures an inclusive learning environment.
- Promoting positive change: Being open to change and learning about new trends in education can drive successful learning outcomes. Encouraging innovation and creativity within the school can create a positive school environment.
Essential skills for school leaders include time management, equity-focused and adaptive leadership, data-driven decision-making, and self-awareness. Leaders excel at navigating and resolving conflict within the school community. School leaders drive success by fostering a positive school culture based on high expectations, teamwork and meaningful relationships.
Take the Next Step in Your Career With an Online Master’s in Educational Leadership
Graduating from FGCU’s online educational leadership master’s program enhances your education career opportunities. With the skills and expertise you gain, you can advance positive outcomes for your staff, students and school community.
As a highly educated school leader, you can improve student learning through developing and implementing an instructional framework that aligns curriculum goals with state standards, student learning needs and successful instructional practices. Further, by recruiting, retaining, and developing a diverse faculty and staff, you can cultivate and support other leaders within your school, fostering the culture of continuous improvement that leads to school success.
Learn more about Florida Gulf Coast University’s online Master of Education in Educational Leadership program.
