English Department Chairwoman Beth Wilson has been published in the summer issue of Independent School magazine. The article, titled "On the Edge of the Dark Side: Self-Concept and the Teacher-Leader," explores the internal struggle with mindset that exists when a member of faculty at an independent school is also a leader among colleagues, and how to turn this into an opportunity for growth and understanding.
Wilson, who has taught English at Darlington since 2007, explains the two primary roles that exist in the lives of teacher-leaders, and how effectively wearing both hats must ultimately hinge on a continued focus on supporting the mission of the school.
"The concept of institutional thinking can help teacher-leaders because it articulates the value of the 'leader' part of our dual identity," writes Wilson. "It offers a constructive alternative to the fear of selling out that is created by our dogged commitment to independence."
An experienced teacher-leader in her own right, the department chair also teaches English 2, English 4 and AP English Language. Wilson holds a B.A. from Davidson College and an M.A. from the University of Tennessee at Chattanooga, and is a doctoral candidate at Old Dominion University.
In May, Wilson was honored with a Wood Faculty Professional Development Endowment Award, and will use the grant to attend the Future of Learning Institute at Harvard University’s Graduate School of Education.
Wilson's
student-shadowing experience was recently highlighted in the ISM (Independent School Management) Monthly Update, an email newsletter circulated to constituents all over the world.
"School Spotlight: An English Teacher’s Odyssey" shared what she experienced and the insight that she gained while spending a day in the life of rising senior Hunter Manning ('16).
Wilson and her husband, Zac, have two children, Gus ('27) and June, and live on campus in Thornwood House.
