Southern launches national academy for current and aspiring school superintendents

Southern launches national academy for current and aspiring school superintendents

Leadership program aims to 'level up' future school district leaders and increase diversity in superintendency roles

Southern University A&M College announces the launch of its first-ever leadership program for current and aspiring K-12 education leaders. The Southern University Academy for Current and Aspiring Superintendents, developed in partnership with HYA Search, will begin on Jan. 24. Supported by the Southern University School of Education, the Academy aims to equip K-12 educators with a Leadership Level Up - the skills and knowledge necessary to successfully transition into the role of public school superintendents.

The Academy's mission is to foster a diverse pool of current and future superintendents, with a particular focus on supporting educators from underrepresented communities. Currently, only five percent of public school superintendents are women or from Black or Latino backgrounds. This program aims to help change that by providing targeted leadership training and mentorship by veteran superintendents who reflect the communities they serve, including Constance Evelyn, former Valley Stream 13 superintendent (New York); Sito Narcisse, former East Baton Rouge Parish School System (Louisiana) superintendent and managing partner of SJ Apple Consulting Group; Charles Foust, former superintendent of New Hanover Schools (North Carolina) and others.

"The Southern University Academy for Current and Aspiring Superintendents represents a significant step toward enhancing educational leadership across the nation," said John K. Pierre, chancellor of Southern University A&M College. "Our goal is to not only prepare skilled leaders for the superintendency but also to help increase the diversity of those leaders, which is vital for creating equitable, inclusive school systems nationwide. The benefits are far-reaching."

The Academy is designed for educational leaders, including aspiring, first and second-year superintendents, veteran school educators and Central Office staff, who are interested in advancing their careers in school district superintendency. By offering a curriculum based on the Professional Standards for Educational Leaders (PSEL), the program will cover key competencies essential for successful district leadership, including day-to-day district operations, budgeting, board relations, communications, and community engagement - all vital aspects of a superintendent's role.

The virtual 10-week program, which includes two onsite sessions at Southern University's Baton Rouge campus, will include collaboration and coaching from experienced and accomplished cabinet-level education leaders while also providing a connection to the the only HBCU system in the nation. Upon program completion, participants will earn graduate credit hours.

"Southern University's School of Education is dedicated to empowering educators who are passionate about advancing their skills, enhancing their careers, and making a meaningful impact on public education," said Emily Jackson-Osagie, interim director of the Southern University School of Educatio. "We provide a valuable opportunity for educators to connect with exceptional leaders and peers, while engaging in thought-provoking discussions that foster critical leadership development."

Applications for the Southern University Academy for Current and Aspiring Superintendents are now being accepted, and options to pay in installments are available for tuition. The program is open to educators nationwide who are ready to take the next step in their leadership journey. For more information or to apply, please visit www.suleaderlevelup.com.