Teacher Leadership Advanced Certificate

There are many different designations for individuals in a teacher leader role and just as many, if not more, “definitions” of what they do. This title is used to identify teachers who unofficially engage in a leadership role in activities that promote change as well as those who have leadership positions for which administrative certification is not required.  It could also include teachers who are released from teaching duties to carry out specific instructional support programs, and full-time classroom teachers who have the additional responsibility of supporting their colleagues, leading department or grade-level teams and/or fostering reform. They may be referred to as mentor teachers, specialists, resource teachers, demonstration teachers, model teachers, coaches, peer teachers, master teachers or teachers on special assignment.  As noted by NYSUT, “regardless of the roles they assume, teacher leaders shape the culture of their schools, improve student learn­ing, and influence practice among their peers.” This program will support Teacher Leaders to effectively engage in this work.

• Experienced PK-12 teachers interested in furthering their leadership skills but not necessarily toward administrative certification.
• Initially certified teachers seeking NYS Professional Teaching Certification through one of Warner master’s programs.
• Master's students in Administration.
• Teaching & Curriculum and Leadership EdD candidates who want to add the certificate to their program.
• K-12 CAS candidates who want to add a specific course or courses to their program.
• Practicing teachers in school districts who wish to increase the capacity of existing personnel.

Yes, any student, in consultation with their advisor, can choose to add this certificate to their program.

This advanced certificate program does not lead to licensure or teacher certification.

Individuals who complete this Advanced Certificate and later decide to pursue K-12 administrative certification can apply up to 6 credits from this program to the SBL and/or SDL certification programs at Warner. In addition, some courses can be used as electives in existing programs such as part of the EdD program in Teaching & Curriculum or K-12 Educational Administration.

It is possible that courses already taken in the program may be retroactively applied to the advanced certificate. Some restrictions apply so individuals should speak with the program director.