Podcast Episode 2: Leading in a Changing Landscape

“I just remember thinking this could be the lifeline that I've been looking for, because, being a new dean, it's just so hard. You have no idea what you're getting into, and the idea that there would be a larger group of deans that I could connect with and talk through big challenges that you're facing in that role was just incredible to me.” 
-Carolyn Theard-Griggs, National Louis University

“I’m so focused on instructional improvement. And one of the things that lean in on as a leader is, I try to get as close to the teacher candidates in the program as I can… I observe teacher candidates every fall. I just go out there and see what it is they're doing. How do they practice? And what I’ve learned from the candidates is what teaches me most, I think, about our EPPs.”
-Ellen McIntyre, University of Tennessee Knoxville

“What are the enabling conditions that need to be there in order for you to even teach anyone? It's about the relationship. And in order to have those relationships, you need to develop a space that welcomes all parts of a person's identity. ”
-Sara DeLano, Dallas College

In Episode 2 of Hand in Hand, Place to Place: Transforming Teacher Preparation, host and DFI Executive Director Valerie Sakimura is joined by Sara DeLano, Ellen McIntyre, and Carolyn Theard-Griggs, who lead teacher-preparation programs in very different geographical and institutional contexts. They examine how the role of leaders has evolved over the last decade, and the mindsets and actions necessary for EPP leaders to champion accessible, high-quality pathways in teaching, looking ahead.

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About “Hand in Hand, Place to Place”

How has the field of teacher preparation evolved over the last decade? Where is it headed, and how can stakeholders work together to ensure all pathways into teaching are affordable and high-quality? Hosted by DFI Executive Director Valerie Sakimura, this five-episode podcast series features insights from leaders and educators working collectively towards a future when all students are taught by well-prepared teachers.