• Program Overview
• Educator Programs
  • LPD Grants
  • Math & Science Network
  • Literacy Network
  • Teachers Leadership Institute
    • Program Description
    • Project Abstracts
    • Advisors and Participants
    • Action Research
    • Advocacy Work
    • Application and Deadlines
    • Meetings and Events
    • Related Resources
  • Fellowships
  • Teacher and Learning Community Resource Center
• Public Engagement Initiative
• Peer Resources

Program History

The Teachers Leadership Institute was founded 10 years ago by the Teachers Network, a nationwide non-profit education organization that identifies and connects innovative teachers exemplifying professionalism and creativity within public school systems. The Teachers Network Leadership Institute (TNLI) was estabilished to improve student achievement by bringing the teachers' voice to education policymaking. The TLNI was formed to close the gap between those who make education policy and teachers who are charged with implementing that policy-ensuring a quality education for every child.

The Ed Fund began sponsorship of a Teachers Leadership Institute affiliate in 2004. The TLI seeks to fulfill our programmatic mandate to offer programs that directly foster teacher leadership.

Program Goals

Educators who participate in the Teachers Leadership Institute will:

• Increase knowledge and understanding about the impact of national, state, and district educational policies on district, school, and classroom practice
• Gain the necessary skills and knowledge to conduct inquiry-based studies
• Develop professional networks with other educators as well as between educators and the larger policy arena

Our Accomplishments

When asked how the Institute had impacted their own practice and facilitated their development as educational leaders, responding Fellows commented in the following ways:

• 100% indicated an increase in knowledge and understanding about policy development and implementation.
• Fellows remarked on a critical shift from reactive to proactive thinking on issues of education policy.
• 85% reported making improvements to their curriculum or practice based on experiences in the TLI.
• Fellows developed professional relationships within the group and with educators throughout the country which helped them think more deeply about their practice.
• Professional relationships were cultivated between Fellows and a number of local policymakers and District officials.

For more information, contact Program Manager Jeff Issenberg at 415.912.2929 x236 or jeff@sfedfund.org.