Looking the Tiger in the Eye: Overcoming Fear-Based Teacher Identities

There has been a growing interest in and research on the construction of teachers' professional identity and parameters of practice among researchers worldwide. This piece examines the nature of teachers' perceptions about their professionalism and practice. It also explores teacher isolation stemming from assumptions related to classroom control and community politics, resulting in fear and relational distance. The exposition contributes to discussions in the field of teacher education and professional development that might change the individualistic and isolated environments in schools and among teaching professionals. It encourages re-thinking of teacher authority and relationships to build school cultures that enable powerful student learning and strengthen teachers' professional identities.