ACSA’s intensive seven-weekend academy for superintendents offers an excellent forum for new or aspiring superintendents to develop the fundamental skills needed to effectively lead a California school district. Presentations and discussion sessions are conducted by an experienced faculty of superintendents who blend management theory with practical applications and examples.
With prior approval from a CCTC approved Tier II program, Academy hours may be used to fulfill a portion of the ATP Practicum or fieldwork requirements for Tier II programs.
Specific themes include:
The Superintendency
- Leadership role of superintendents
- Managing the change process
- Challenges facing new superintendents
- Keys to personal advancement
District Management
- School district organization
- Management skills
- Developing a positive district climate
- Strategic planning
Human Relations
- Instructional/management team building
- Shared decision making and restructuring
- Board/superintendent relations
- Negotiations and collective bargaining
- Personnel management, evaluation and employee relations
Instructional Leadership
- Staff development
- Improving and evaluating instructional programs
- Textbook selection, censorship and critical curriculum issues
- Educational technology uses in management and instruction
Policies and Procedures
- Superintendent contracts
- California law and the superintendency
- School finance and budgeting
- Implementing the Ed Code and other state regulations
The ACSA Superintendents Academy is widely regarded as the “fast track” into the superintendency. It helps you avoid the pitfalls, learn practical tips from seasoned superintendents and build a resource network of colleagues.
The academy offers 70 hours of instruction over seven weekend sessions, Friday evenings, 5:00 p.m. to 9:00 p.m., and Saturdays, 9:00 a.m. to 3:30 p.m.* The extensive course syllabus and materials provided to each participant are an exceptional resource for ongoing reference.
*Please note that Saturday hours for this academy may vary.