From the director…

Ann Zweber Werner, Ph.D.

This is a busy time of the year. It is the time when the majority of our licensure candidates schedule their exit panel review. The stakes are high as at the University of Minnesota this is not a rubber stamp process. Not only do our aspiring administrators need to pass the rigorous core licensure courses, amassing a minimum of 60 credits beyond the bachelor’s degree including a master’s degree, but they must also be able to demonstrate their “knowledge, skills and abilities” for each of the competencies and sub-competencies listed in MN rule 3512. For example, there are 21 core competencies and 97 sub-competencies specified for the K-12 principal’s license.

The U of M aspiring administrator creates an electronic portfolio that contains authentic practice examples that demonstrate how he or she has applied the professional wisdom and the research, inquiry, and reflection obtained from courses to the competencies. The e-folio has been a positive addition to the licensure program over the past few years. E-folio is sponsored by MNSCU and funded by the state. It provides free access to an e-folio site for each resident of the state of Minnesota. It is therefore available as a tool for students and staff in all levels of schools as well as to private residents.

The e-folio allows individuals to create more dynamic documentation of their professional history. More exhibits can be added into the e-folio and either directly stored on the individual’s personal site or can be linked to other sites. For example, many of our students link their e-folio to the University of Minnesota for direct access to his or her transcript. It is also easier to tell the story of one’s leadership style and beliefs and link them to theoretical frameworks with an e-folio than the traditional paper portfolio. Though the professional wisdom of our mentors is essential for developing administrators, now, more than ever, it is essential to ground that wisdom in research of best practice. An added bonus for most in the licensure program is learning new and useful computer skills.

The completed e-folio is presented to a panel made up of a representative of the University and two practicing or retired licensed administrators. They review the e-folio and listen to the oral presentation of the aspirant. Upon completion of that presentation the candidate is either endorsed or is provided with a professional development plan for any competencies or sub-competencies that needs further development. The candidate continues to learn more about any areas cited until he or she is assessed as proficient.

The panel of practitioners is an essential part of creating the necessary tension to move each learner to their highest achievement. This partnership is good for everyone, but most importantly for the students and communities for which the newly licensed administrator will provide leadership. It is a hand-in-hand process and we are grateful for the selfless contribution of time that panel members and field mentors provide.

Ann Zweber Werner, Ph.D.
Program director