Mathematics and Science Teacher Leadership Academy Guiding Principles The National Council of Teachers of Mathematics Principles and Standards for School Mathematics, and the National Science Education Standards provide a vision for effective K-12 mathematics and science education. A need exists in mathematics and science education in Missouri for teacher-leaders who can help realize the vision of effective practice and improved student learning. Teacher-leaders need a wide range of knowledge, skills, and dispositions which are derived from research, reflection on practice, and shared expertise. Teacher-leaders need the support of others in similar positions to be fully successful. Experience in a supportive learning community enables teacher-leaders to recreate such a community in their own settings. Teacher-leader learning must be embedded in practice. The Leadership Academy is designed to enhance, not add on, to teacher-leaders' professional growth. Teacher-leaders assume responsibility for their professional development by pursuing their own learning goals in a variety of ways, including workshops, study groups, reading, and mentors. The rich research on best practice in professional development is the basis for Leadership Academy methods. Taking action to improve mathematics or science education is the ultimate performance for teacher-leaders.