New Superintendents’ Seminar Series

Designed to provide essential learning and networking for new superintendents.

ACSA’s New Superintendents’ Seminar Series (NSSS) is designed exclusively for the first- and second-year superintendent.

The program provides participants with a cohort of new superintendent colleagues in a year-long program of five two-day workshops.

NSSS brings new superintendents together to tackle current issues in a confidential and supportive setting. Through a seminar format, practical topics specific to the role of superintendent are explored, examined and discussed. Experienced superintendents provide wisdom, expertise, experience and guidance to new superintendents.

If you are a new superintendent, NSSS provides essential professional learning and networking for you.

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WhY NSSS?
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2026-27 Dates & Locations

Session 1: Sept. 18-19, 2026 | ACSA Sacramento
Session 2: Nov. 13-14, 2026  | ACSA Sacramento
Session 3: Jan. 26-27, 2027* | Monterey
Session 4: March 12-13, 2027 | ACSA Sacramento
Session 5: April 16-17, 2027 | ACSA Sacramento

ACSA Sacramento Office
1029 J St., Sacramento, CA 95814

* The Jan. 26-27 session will convene in Monterey at the New Superintendents Workshop in conjunction with the ACSA Superintendents’ Symposium.

NSSS vs Superintendents Academy

Read a comparison of two of ACSA’s offerings for superintendents.

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Registration Fees

ACSA Member: $3,000
Non-Member: $4,000

2026-27 Registration will be available on June 1, 2026.

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Register for the 2026-27 program.

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Directors

Trudy Arriaga and Jason Peplinski

Topics Covered

  • Goal Setting: Working in partnership with the Governing Board to establish annual goals.
  • Culture Building: Establishing a culture that is inclusive and welcoming for all.
  • Leadership: Leadership Matters and it starts with the Superintendent.
  • Evaluation: Creating systems of improvement.
  • Negotiations: Setting the stage for success and a collaborative process.
  • Governance: Appreciating, respecting and partnering with the Governing Board.
  • Human Resources: Navigating complex personnel issues.
  • Taking Stock: Appreciating what has gone well and future planning.

What Superintendents Are Saying About NSSS

NSSS provided the support I needed in my first year as a superintendent. Our facilitators created the conditions necessary for us to be authentic, ask questions, present dilemmas and most importantly — remember that we can do the job! NSSS is time well spent; it is a necessary investment.

— Vanessa Buitrago, superintendent of Modesto City Schools

I couldn’t have asked for a better experience. Every minute of the learning was on point and applied immediately to the reality of being a new superintendent. The cohort experience was invaluable. The bonds created have become a network I rely on.

— Jason Lea, superintendent of Roseland School District

NSSS was exactly what I needed as a new superintendent. The thoughtful guidance and support of Trudy Arriaga and Jason Peplinski created a space where I felt both challenged and supported. The opportunity to build deep relationships with colleagues who understood the complexities of the superintendency was invaluable. The experience gave me time to reflect, grow and focus on my own learning as a leader.

— Sara Stone, superintendent of Albany Unified School District

The ACSA New Superintendents Seminar Series provided invaluable support for me as a leader stepping into one of the most complex and rewarding roles in education. Through mentorship, practical guidance and collaboration with experienced colleagues, we gained tools, resources, and strategies we could immediately apply in our diverse districts.

— Nia Rashidchi, superintendent of Castro Valley Unified School District

I was reluctant to give up the time, now I want another year! The connections, the speakers, and the topics were relevant, inspiring and what was needed. Trudy and Jason are exceptional mentors.

— Chris Calabrese, superintendent of Benicia Unified School District

ACSA’s New Superintendents’ Seminar Series (NSSS) is designed exclusively for the first- and second-year superintendent. The program provides participants with a cohort of new superintendent colleagues in a year-long program of five two-day workshops. Through a seminar format, practical topics specific to the role of superintendent are explored, examined and discussed.

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