To truly thrive, LGBTQ educators need to feel a sense of belonging. Education Week blogger Peter DeWitt shares how, as a gay teacher and principal, he struggled to be himself. But that changed with the help of a supportive network of colleagues.

Being Accepted, Not Just Tolerated, Is Good for Mental Health

Peter DeWitt

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Poestenkill Elementary School principal Peter DeWitt stands in a hallway on Wednesday, June 5, 2013 in Poestenkill, N.Y. DeWitt talked to us about field tests given to New York's students on behalf of the Pearson testing company. (Lori Van Buren / Times Union)

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LGBTQ students

Teacher diversity

Principal engagement and motivation

Equity

Leadership

A former principal describes how teachers' collective efficacy—that is, their confidence that they can make a difference—developed during a time of crisis and low morale at his school. "What matters is that teachers are able to take charge of an element of teaching and learning and see the difference they can make through working together," he writes.Part of a theme issue on "High-Powered Teams."

How Collective Teacher Efficacy Develops

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Whole Child

Teacher engagement and motivation

Supported (whole child)

Instructional leaders

Collaboration

Professional development

School and district management

Professional Learning

Sean Slade

School Climate Change: How do I build a positive environment for learning? (ASCD Arias) (Print Book)

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Print Books

School Climate Change: How do I build a positive environment for learning? (ASCD Arias)

School Culture

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Peter DeWitt

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Articles by Peter

Being Accepted, Not Just Tolerated, Is Good for Mental Health

How Collective Teacher Efficacy Develops

Books by Peter

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