Teacher Leader Program

Innovation. Connection. Leadership.

students at Educational Board Committee meeting The Teacher Leader program is a game-changer for passionate students seeking an extra dose of challenge and growth in the world of education. We're on a mission to equip you with the skills to navigate the dynamic educational scene like a pro. Imagine being an ace communicator, a top-notch problem solver, and an innovator – that's the goal! Ten outstanding undergraduate teacher education seniors are chosen each year - the selection and application process is as fierce as your academic spirit. Ready to step up and lead the way? Join the Teacher Leader program – where education meets empowerment!

What do we do?

Immerse yourself in the cutting-edge world of education with the Teacher Leader program. Get up close and personal with trailblazing leaders in education and your local community through exciting site visits, one-on-one mentoring sessions, and engaging roundtable discussions. Picture this: a weeklong experience in the heart of Washington, D.C. prior to the fall semester. But that's not all – as a Teacher Leader, you'll be paired with a mentor for personalized guidance and support throughout the entire program. This is an incredible opportunity to connect, learn, and lead.

Thanks to the generous support of donors, there is no cost to participate in the program.

Being a Teacher Leader has allowed me to identify new ways to be an active leader within the education community. The guidance of our mentors & peers has led to meaningful takeaways and opportunities.
Kim Cervantes-Diaz, middle grades major

How Do I Become a Teacher Leader?

Read through the information below if you are interested in becoming a Teacher Leader. The deadline for the upcoming cohort is to be announced.

Program Requirements
- demonstration of leadership qualities such as initiative, willingness, and ability to lead
- desire to make a difference in education and the community
- commitment to program expectations and program meetings/activities
Eligibility Requirements
- a full-time student in good standing at the College of Charleston
- a declared Teacher Education major
- must have senior standing before the start of the fall semester (completed 90 credit hours)
- available for travel the week before classes begin
- available for monthly meetings on Thursday evenings during the academic year
Application
The application for the Teacher Program must be completed online and requires the following:
1. Basic personal and contact information;
2. Biographical sketch (1-2 pages); here are some ideas to guide your thinking:
  1. critical events and catalysts which influenced your development;
  2. a rich description of your background, family, significant others as related to your leadership development;
  3. social and cultural environments under which you grew and developed over time;
  4. self-knowledge, including personal traits, what motivates you, and how your specific set of knowledge and skills have been acquired;
  5. how your specific, high level talents impacted your life course; and
  6. a critical examination of your decisions, goals, and interests and your leadership development; and
  7. examples of anecdotes that illustrate your path.
3. Current resume;
4. Current class history obtained from Degreeworks (directions here); and
5. Letter of recommendation from a faculty member in the Department of Teacher Education (to be uploaded here).
Selection Process

Prospective program participants must complete an online application and provide supporting documentation. Participants will be selected based on eligibility criteria and strength of application, which includes the application, academic record, faculty recommendation, cover letter, and resume. After the initial application review, a select group of students will be invited to a panel interview, which may include program administrators, current Teacher Leaders, and other College of Charleston faculty.