Improving student outcomes, accelerating learning and providing robust leadership to staff are all affected by the quality of instructional leadership in a school or district. Acquiring strong leadership skills prepares leaders to have a positive impact on student achievement while positioning them as top candidates for sought-after administrative roles. Working with administrators, teachers and coaches, effective instructional leaders guide academic goals and create thriving cultures that benefit both teachers and students.
Instructional leadership professionals can earn career-focused certification through the online Education Specialist (EdS) Instructional Leadership program from the University of West Alabama (UWA). This program focuses on the skills and knowledge needed to improve instructional programs and prepare for the essential role educational leaders play in improving student learning.
The Impact of Instructional Leadership
The National Assessment of Educational Progress (NAEP) provides an annual report on Math and Reading Assessments for students in grades 4 and 8, referred to as The Nation’s Report Card. Test results have been on a downward trend in recent years. Strong instructional leaders can help reverse those trends and improve student outcomes.
New Leaders notes six key instructional leadership practices that are effective in positively influencing student learning. They are as follows:
- Set a vision for ambitious instruction
- Upgrade curriculum and resources
- Create systems for data-driven instruction
- Provide equitable access for interventions
- Develop systems for professional development and collaboration
- Offer coaching to teachers
Strong instructional leaders inspire action and optimism while setting an example for others. They aim to help teachers and instructors achieve individual and collective goals. The leadership role involves managing curricula, budgeting, scheduling, empowering teachers to be leaders, and ensuring that school responsibilities are shared equitably.
The most effective instructional leaders have great communication skills and are effective planners. In addition, leaders must be trustworthy, competent and adept at team building and collaboration. Shaping the culture, strong instructional leaders are also optimistic and encouraging to teachers and students alike. Having a clear vision for the school and setting specific goals requires collaboration and buy-in from teachers and staff.
To identify and employ the best instructional practices, instructional leaders rely on research to make sure they will be effective. Data can be enlightening and persuasive, informing teachers who want to try new ideas and strategies and drawing parents and families into the shared vision and goals. In fact, parent and community support is a vital part of building a support structure teachers and students can rely on. The quality of leadership affects individual student and school success.
What Is an Education Specialist in Instructional Leadership Degree?
An EdS in instructional leadership degree is a specialized option for experienced educators who want to advance their career into leadership positions, such as school principals, curriculum directors, instructional coaches and district administrators. UWA’s online EdS Instructional Leadership program helps candidates develop expertise while gaining leadership competencies and administrative capabilities. This specialist degree also prepares educators to provide leadership in special education programs or school psychology and create educational pathways for students with diverse abilities.
Students can complete UWA’s program in as few as one or two years. Candidates who pursue this degree often have a specific career pathway in mind. EdS degrees provide students with the tools they need to become leaders in administration, program management, mentorship, curriculum design, research and more.
Prepare for Leadership Roles With an EdS Instructional Leadership Degree
UWA’s online EdS in Instructional Leadership program includes courses in curriculum design, advanced educational research, school reform models, educational assessment, mentoring strategies, organizational leadership and more. Additionally, students are linked one-on-one with a mentor to build their networks and develop better leadership skills.
This degree caters to individuals with specific goals or career paths. It is ideal for educators seeking a post-master’s-level education, a Class AA Professional Certificate and leadership positions in roles such as principal or administrator.
Learn more about UWA’s online EdS Instructional Leadership program.