Department Chairs Institute

The role of the department chair is often one of the most complex in a school. The chair must negotiate the responsibilities of leadership within the department as a teaching colleague while at the same time working with the administrative team in addressing the larger issues of the entire school. The Department Chairs Institute will guide participants in exploring the multilayered challenges of this unique position and in developing the knowledge, skills, and strategies needed to become effective department leaders.

With the help of readings, activities, and group work, participants will learn new skills and processes, support each other around challenges, and establish a strong “leadership learning community” amongst themselves. Throughout the Institute, participants will have opportunities to work individually and collaboratively on their own department visions and will leave with practical structures and strategies that will help them to plan and implement their goals in the year ahead.

Some of the specific topics we will explore:

• Developing departmental structures and systems that support student learning and foster equity and efficiency
• Forging a common and compelling vision/direction amongst independent-minded colleagues
• Identifying, prioritizing, and advancing professional and departmental goals for the short and long-term
• Designing and facilitating impactful department meetings
• Leading and managing change over time
  

Central questions we will explore:

• What does being department chair mean to me?
• How can I understand my department from multiple perspectives?
• What does my department need the most right now? In the future?
• How can observations and feedback best support student learning and faculty growth?
• What do I need to navigate difficult conversations effectively?
• How can transparent departmental structures and consistent departmental practices enhance student learning and team collaboration?

How can I inspire my team?

CANCELLATION POLICY

Life happens. We understand that there will be times when you cannot attend a workshop that you have registered and paid for. Registration may be transferred to a different person up to 7 days before a session. However refunds will not be given, and a session missed for any reason will not be refunded.

For our Online Workshops, refunds are available up to fourteen days before the session. Please contact us directly or make the request within Eventbrite.

Please contact us by email as soon as you know you cannot attend an online workshop and cannot transfer registration. This will allow us time to contact our waitlist and hopefully fill your spot.

You will receive a full refund if CATDC chooses to cancel this event.