This standards-based professional learning opportunity will provide Latino/a leaders with an insightful blend of theory and practice through in-person sessions (if feasible), on-line webinars and a virtual platform by highly skilled, nationally recognized Latino and Latina educational leaders and mentors. Cohort members will participate in experiential learning tasks designed to expand your understanding of self as a Latino and Latina and the critical skills necessary for success as a superintendent. Members of the academy cohort will explore problems of practice, simulations, and engage in a series of learning experiences culminating in a Capstone Project. The goal of the academy is to produce transformational superintendents rather than traditional administrators and prepare Latino and Latina leaders to be successful in the role of superintendent. Graduates of the academy will be equipped to lead diverse future ready school systems with creativity, vision, and a commitment to equity and excellence.

Academy Vision:    

The Aspiring Superintendents Academy for Latino and Latina Leaders will address critical issues of leadership designed to support Latino and Latina candidates aspiring to the superintendent role. The Aspiring Superintendents Academy for Latino and Latina Leaders program will include the following modules and focus areas: 

• Framing the Superintendent Role:  Knowing Yourself and Your Leadership Strengths and Areas for Growth as a Future Latino and Latina Superintendent
• Leading for Equity with Urgency: Unique Challenges Facing Latino and Latina Superintendents in Confronting Bias, Limited Access and Opportunity, and Inherent Structural Inequities
• Understanding Governance: Building Effective Relationships While Confronting the Unique Challenges Faced by Latino and Latina Superintendents
• Building a Community of Support: Cultural Responsiveness and Leadership Strategies for Addressing the Unique Strengths and Challenges of Latino and Latina Students, Families, and Stakeholder Groups
• Balancing leadership: Addressing Operations and Fiscal Management
• Leading Learning: The Role of the Latino and Latina Superintendent in Reinforcing Evidence-Based Practices in Curriculum and Assessment, Including Cultural and Linguistic Proficiency  

  2021-22 Academy Details and Dates

 LEAD TEACHERS

Dr. Gladys I. Cruz, District Superintendent,        Questar III BOCES, Castleton, NY

Dr. Lupita Ley Hightower, Superintendent, Tolleson Elementary School District, Tolleson, AZ

Who is Encouraged to Apply? 

Latino and Latina leaders who aspire to be a superintendent are encouraged to apply.   Priority will be given to Latino and Latino building leaders and central office professionals.  Superintendents and members of district governing bodies are encouraged to nominate professionals.  

Participation will be limited to 30 per cohort. Applications will be screened for the highest quality candidates.  Those selected for participation in the program will be outstanding, high-performing leaders whose next logical career moves would be to the superintendency.   

 Applications are due January 15, 2021.

* The registration fee of $4,500.00 will be invoiced upon acceptance. 

For more information or questions, please contact the Program Director, Debbie Magee at dmagee@aasa.org.