How Teachers Lead: My Journey as a Special Education Teacher

Hi, I’m Tina Wagner, and I’ve been on a remarkable journey as a special education teacher. Along the way, I’ve realized something profound: teachers are not just educators—they are leaders. Whether we’re guiding students through daily lessons or advocating for systemic changes, we hold immense potential to shape the future, not only within our classrooms but across the broader education landscape. 

My Journey into Leadership

My introduction to the Council for Exceptional Children (CEC) seven years ago marked the beginning of my leadership path. As a graduate student at Western Oregon University, I was encouraged by two professors who were deeply involved in CEC. They inspired me to attend the CEC convention in Portland. That experience opened my eyes to the vast world of special education, and it felt like stepping into a sea of knowledge. It was both exciting and overwhelming—there was so much to learn, so much potential to grow. But it was there, surrounded by experts and passionate educators, that I began to see myself not just as a teacher, but as a leader. 

After attending CEC events and joining the Oregon CEC Board of Director, I was eventually elected as president of the Oregon CEC unit. This leadership role has been one of the most fulfilling experiences of my career, and it’s something I never imagined I’d pursue. I used to think that leadership was reserved for administrators or policymakers, but I’ve learned that teachers are leaders in every sense of the word. 

Teachers as Leaders: More Than a Title 

When I think about leadership, I reflect on how it manifests in a classroom. Every day, teachers make decisions that impact students’ lives—decisions that go beyond academic content. We create inclusive environments, advocate for students with diverse needs, and work tirelessly to provide equitable opportunities for all. This is leadership.  

Being a leader doesn’t mean you have to hold an official title. In fact, some of the most impactful leaders are those who quietly guide and inspire others. In special education, leadership often looks like advocating for a student’s needs during an Individualized Education Program (IEP) meeting, supporting a paraprofessional, or mentoring a new teacher. 

Growing into Leadership

One of the turning points in my leadership development was attending the CEC Leadership Institute and the Special Education Legislative Summit in Washington, D.C. These events were powerful opportunities to connect with fellow educators, learn about advocacy, and understand the role of leadership in shaping education policy. I walked away from these experiences with a deeper sense of purpose, not just in my classroom but in the broader context of educational reform. 

At these events, I met teachers, board members, and leaders from all over the country, and I realized something important: leadership in education isn’t about hierarchy. It’s about fostering innovation, encouraging diversity, and ensuring that every voice—especially those of our students—is heard and valued. 

Encouraging Others to Lead 

What I’ve learned from my own journey is that leadership isn’t about having all the answers or being in charge. It’s about being willing to step forward, to advocate, to inspire others, and to continuously grow. Many of us don’t see ourselves as leaders, but I believe that every teacher has the potential to lead in some way. Whether it’s through mentoring, professional development, or taking an active role in advocacy, teachers can—and should—embrace their leadership capabilities. 

As teachers, we hold the power to influence not just the future of our students, but the future of education itself. If we broaden our vision of what leadership looks like, we can open doors for ourselves and others. Sometimes, leadership comes from simply recognizing potential—in ourselves and our colleagues—and giving it space to grow. 

A Call to Action 

To my fellow special education teachers: I encourage you to see yourself as a leader, regardless of your current role. Whether you’re in the classroom, on a board, or in the community, your voice matters. Take the next step—attend a conference, join a committee, advocate for change. Leadership is not about the title you hold, but the impact you make.  

Together, let’s lead with purpose and passion, creating a future where every student and teacher can thrive. 

Christina “Tina” Wagner is a Case Manager/Special Education Teacher with EDGE (Enhanced Digital and Guided Education) Middle School Program. She lives in Keizer, OR.  

Tina is also a member of CEC’s Leadership Development Committee (2024-27)