Introduction

During the last two decades, the public’s outcry for more rigorous and explicit accountability of public education has brought about significant change in the state and federal laws that govern our public schools. This statutory re-definition of what is to be expected of public schools, how educational services are delivered and how the effectiveness of such services get measured has led to a widespread acknowledgement of the need for significant educational reform. Consequently America’s schools have been in the midst of a reform-minded environment affecting all levels of the public education system. Along with the renewed emphasis in educational accountability have been other forces of change that have magnified the complexity in the governance and management of public schools. The changing population demographics coupled with significant growth in student enrollment have broadened the range of school district functions and the direct and supportive instructional services needed to improve the academic performance of all students.

The implications for the roles and responsibilities of educational leaders have been significant. These forces of change have caused major re-thinking in the manner in which we view the traditional structure and organization of public schools, and the management and accountability for the appropriated resources. Today, the roles and responsibilities inherent in executive educational leadership positions require individuals who possess skills, knowledge, and real world experiences to provide direction within dynamic and complex organizations.

To that effect, the Cooperative Superintendency Program provides two graduate level avenues for executive leadership preparation based on expectations of various school district settings. While both of these programs lead to a graduate degree in educational administration with concentration in the Superintendency, the student will have an option to participate in a master’s and/or a doctoral level academic program. Successful completion of either program will ensure student eligibility for the state superintendent certification assessment.

The program’s search for candidates is comprehensive. Our desire is for every competitive prospect to have access to this opportunity. Competitive scholarship opportunities will be provided to candidates to assist with the cost of tuition, books and other program related expenses.

This web page provides access to all the information needed for those interested in applying to the Cooperative Superintendency Program. If you wish to directly ask questions about the application process, contact the CSP Program at 512-475-8579.