Lead teachers are generally experienced teachers who have spent a number of years in the classroom. In most school districts, lead teachers hold a graduate degree in school administration and are considered school administrators.
Lead teacher expectations vary by school. In my experience, lead teachers are becoming more of what could be called "glorified secretaries." Principals and counselors, either because of time or the nature of the duty, pass off many of their responsibilities to the lead teacher.
The lead teacher job description can best be describes as a teacher resource.
The concept of a lead teacher is fabulous and can really
be an effective resource for teachers, if lead teacher expectations are clear and if other school personnel would refrain from dumping their “to do but do not want do” lists on the lead teacher. A lead teacher is an asset to a school and should be in charge of curriculum development, helping the school maintain quality instruction and a rigorous curriculum.
If schools are paying lead teachers salaries to hold the title, then they need to allow these individuals do to what they have been trained to do. Lead teachers know what it is like to be a teacher in the classroom and can draw on their time and experiences as teachers to help them develop materials that are effective for increasing students’ skills and knowledge. They have taught and know that students are going to struggle with certain concepts and know how to work with students who struggle.
Not only can lead teachers help
teachers develop materials, but they can also offer their advice and suggestions as to how to deal with recalcitrant students. If a teacher is having a particular problem with a class or a group of students, the lead teacher is there to assist the teacher in regaining order in the classroom or refocusing certain groups.