Program Overview
Unique Preparation
Creating successful schools takes more than the efforts of a single leader. Deep, lasting success results when a leader harnesses the collective capacity of students, staff, parents, central office support and community members to develop a shared vision and design, implement, and sustain effective, collaborative systems. Our program participants learn how to accomplish this.
Collaborative Cohorts
The Principalship Program implements a cohort model that requires participants to work interdependently toward a common goal. During the first summer, cohort members learn to build community through Transition Camp activities that set the stage for developing collaborative norms. The Cohort, utilizing quantitative and qualitative data analysis, conducts an in-depth campus study of a local school to identify areas of need and then completes extensive research on how to best address these needs. This authentic experience launches cohort members into the world of scholarly research and school leadership – an optimal blend of theory and practice.
Relevant Education
Continuing coursework extends and deepens the knowledge and capacity required of powerful instructional leaders to establish highly effective schools. Participants receive both university and campus based support through purposeful internship experiences and guided reflection on practice through the following components:
- 24 month (2-year) program designed for working professionals
- Cohorts of 15-24 members
- Individualized development
- Mentoring, Coaching and Internship support
Flexible Scheduling
Because most of our participants have full-time or part-time jobs, our Master of Education program is more flexible than most others and compatible with district school calendars. To accommodate working students, classes during the fall and spring are typically held in late afternoons, evenings and/or weekends, while in the summer months classes are more intensive.
Outstanding Faculty
Our faculty members are highly respected educational leaders in Texas and in the nation. Many regularly publish in and oftentimes edit some of the finest national and international research journals. Adjunct faculty are practicing or recently practicing administrators with outstanding records of leadership success.