There are a number of trainings available out there in credential preparation programs designed to get site administrators “ready” for the job ahead.

There are other principal training programs developed for a singular focus. For example, AB 430 to assist principals to lead their schools out of Program Improvement or Professional Learning Communities trainings to develop site-based collaborative teams to promote student learning.

ACSA’s Leadership Institute is different. The content is more comprehensive, and it is exclusively focused on the role of the principal.

Session modules are embedded in the daily work of the principal. Leadership Institute is developed by principals working at the New Teacher Center for today’s principal. It is delivered by successful, experienced principals and ACSA Educational Services staff, dedicated to supporting principals.

For the past five years, Leadership Institute has been used to complement principal coaching for those in the ACSA/NTC Alternative Clear Credential Program in the Bay Area.

Now, the entire 10-module LI series is available to those in ACCP and to principals who just seek a training and regional networking opportunity focused upon the challenges faced every day by California principals.

Leadership Institute is available regionally, at the Sacramento professional development center, at the new professional development facilities in Ontario and the remodeled PD facility in Burlingame. Sessions begin in January and conclude in May.

Training and networking is presented efficiently in a half-day format, 8:30-11:30 a.m., providing time for professional growth and regional collaboration off-campus, while allowing leaders to get back to school for the afternoon. Five sessions will be presented over the winter and spring, with five more sessions later next year.

The schedule is as follows:

Winter/Spring 2009: climate and culture; time management and delegation; decision making; supervision: formative assessment; and evaluation: summative assessment.

Fall/Winter 2009: using data; meeting facilitation; professional learning community; recruit, staff, develop new teachers; and vision and leadership style.

Those interested are encouraged to register while there is still space available. Visit ACSA Online at www.acsa.org, click on Professional Learning, then on Workshops and Trainings to find information about specific module content and a registration flier.

For additional information please contact Michael Bossi in ACSA’s Educational Services Department at mbossi@acsa.org or (916) 329-3843.