The Teacher as an Authority Figure

A changing culture has resulted in attitude changes toward authority. All of us have been affected by these changes in one way or another. This workshop will explore the "parts and pieces" of an authentic authority brought to the classroom set in the context of the attitude changes that we are facing today.

In "The Teacher as an Authority Figure," Melvin Lehman explores the multifaceted nature of establishing and maintaining authority in the classroom. He emphasizes that effective authority is not about a single approach but the intersection of four key elements: community culture, organizational integrity, student dynamics, and personal trustworthiness. Through personal anecdotes about influential teachers, he illustrates different styles of authority and highlights the importance of aligning with community and organizational values, building trust, and cultivating habits that support competence. He underscores that a teacher’s authority stems from a combination of personal integrity, relational trust, and practical classroom management, ultimately rooted in a holistic, God-centered approach to teaching.

"The Teacher as an Authority Figure" was presented by Melvin Lehman at Teachers Week 2015, on August 4-7, 2025, held at Faith Builders Educational Programs in Guys Mills, Pennsylvania.