Meet Conference Scholar
Joseph Semadeni
Biography
Joseph Semadeni is a 4th grade teacher and instructional facilitator at Osmond Elementary School in Afton, Wyo.
^ Return to top
In His Own Words: A Leadership Reflection
What has led to your development as a leader?
I attribute my development as a leader to three factors. First, I completed a rigorous administrative training program at Utah State University. This program involved an in-depth study of professional literature, opportunities to express my thinking through writing and hands-on experiences that enhanced my leadership abilities. Second, I formed a habit of regularly studying and applying best practices. The work of Robert J. Marzano and Carl Glickman have been especially useful. Third, upon completion of my supervisory/administrative certification, I decided to apply my newly acquired leadership skills as a classroom teacher rather than becoming an administrator.
This decision influenced the relationships I developed with educators in my school. Teachers viewed me as a fellow colleague rather than an authority figure, allowing me to apply principles of adult learning and adult motivation without the resistance administrators sometimes experience. My teacher leadership opportunities led to the development of Fusion, a unique approach to peer mentoring that fosters a risk-taking environment and collegiality. Over a period of seven years, Fusion has motivated a group of 20 educators to participate in nearly 1,700 peer observations and to learn hundreds of best practices together. Consequently, student achievement has climbed to the top of the state.
^ Return to top
What leadership article has inspired you?
^ Return to top
Scholars Quick Links
^ Return to top