Discusses the meaning, aims, and future directions of teacher empowerment. Generally, teacher empowerment is any activity or means that enhances teachers' professional status. Ideally, empowerment heightens teacher self-esteem, boosts knowledge of subject matter and pedagogy, and fosters greater collegiality. In reality (according to four dedicated teachers), teacher autonomy is limited, and school bureaucracy remains largely unchanged. (Contains 89 references.) (MLH)