Proficiency I is by far the broadest and most difficult to interpret of the Texas administrator proficiencies. The proficiency is entitled, Learner Centered Leadership. Everything an administrator does should be able to withstand the scrutiny of this proficiency. Every decision should be made with the children at heart and in mind. I selected my letter of unconditional acceptance to Sam Houston State Universityís doctoral program in Educational Leadership as my archive for this proficiency. At face, one might think this archive would be better suited for the proficiency on professional development; however, I believe it fits best right here.

My decision to enroll in an Ed.D. program was undoubtedly one of the most difficult ones I have made in my life. By accepting a place in Doctoral Cohort II I am placing my family, friends, and many social interactions on the back burner for approximately three years. I am also committing myself to three years of exhausting, laborious, and unending research.

What does this have to do with Proficiency I? Everything. By committing myself to a rigorous program such as this, I am better preparing myself to becoming a stronger "Learner Centered Leader." I believe that my track record already establishes me as an outstanding young administrator with great potential; however, I am unwilling to settle for that. By enrolling in the program I am committing myself to doing whatever it takes to prepare myself to better serve my district, my community and most importantly, the students.

I believe my commitment to self-betterment has already made a significant impact on the district in which I work. I feel I am better prepared to make difficult, data based decisions as a result of my involvement in the program. Furthermore, I have developed a network of professionals from whom I may seek advice or counsel with when ever necessary. I am sure my continued involvement in the program will continue to make me an even stronger leader/administrator.

Learner Centered Leadership is what administration at every level is all about. I believe that my history of relentless self improvement and work history serve as evidence to the fact that I am willing and prepared to take whatever steps are necessary to better serve the learner community and the students.