What is your Educator Identity? Reflections and Career Aspirations for Teacher Leaders

Written by Abena Sey

July 26, 2024

“When we are self-aware, we create a positive and productive work environment that allows our team to thrive.” ~ Ginny Clarke

This summer, I took some time to reflect on my career as an educator.  Spending the time to think, journal and plan helped me to deeply appreciate my past experiences and competencies developed in my journey in the field of education.  This exercise also gave me clarity on my goals and career aspirations, and it reminded me of my contributions to each organization and my growth in each role that I had.  

I learned that I am highly self-aware.  I understand what I want to experience in my work, how I want to be treated and how I want my family to experience me after work.  I am patient.  When the right opportunity comes my way, I am ready for it because I work on myself daily.  Preparation is key.

Here are some thoughts and insights I gained from this exploration.  I would encourage all teachers to take the time to do a similar task in order to re-discover themselves and become clear about what makes them happy and find meaning in their work.  It is a chance to plan how to leverage the information for use in one’s current role or in a future opportunity. 

I love being a teacher.  I derive joy from working with my students through instruction, encouragement and problem solving; I enjoy helping my students work towards their learning goals and achieve their dreams.  

I am a leader.  In my work environment, I lead with compassion, kindness and joy to support my students and colleagues.  I am an avid learner, researcher and analyzer; I grow through challenges that expand my point of view and help me to become more empathetic.  I am focused and work diligently towards my goals, harnessing momentum from my successes and rising up from setbacks.  This increases my confidence and bolsters my ambition.  

I value organization.  I like creating systems to keep me organized and accountable.  Organization has the added benefit of creating ease in my work, supporting efficiency and giving me peace of mind.  

Uncertainty is a natural part of striving towards one’s goals.  I adapt well to ambiguity when I am supported and given the freedom to try new ideas and learn from my experiences.  I seek the advice of my colleagues, do my due diligence and execute on a plan.  I use feedback to guide my decisions skillfully and adapt quickly when necessary.

Success to me means producing good work, feeling joyful in my productivity and working with positive and supportive colleagues.  I thrive when I have the time to explore ideas and new learning opportunities independently and can give insight to my team.  I value respect and working honourably.  I set high expectations for myself and work hard to achieve them.

Do you know your educator identity?  Teachers - take some time to reflect, dream and plan a future for yourself where you experience joy in your work, whatever that looks like for you.  Dare to dream!