Ascend PreK-12 Leadership Program
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The Ascend PreK-12 Leadership Program is a six-month cohort-based program guiding educators, academic leaders, teachers, coordinators, supervisors, directors, and deans in effectively leading schools and school districts in a constantly evolving landscape.
Main Topic Areas
Topics will be covered during the six-month program include leadership theory, educational policy and organizational management, foundations of PreK-12 educational leadership, financials, operations and safe school management for school leaders, effective communication and technology, educational policy and advocacy issues, advice and insights for aspiring principals, and navigating the superintendent career path. Career development for principals and superintendents serving within PreK-12 schools and districts will also be an element of the program.
Program Structure
Ascend Prek-12 participants will complete a seminar and webinars beginning in October and end March each year. Cohort members will complete an online orientation, attend the HACU’s Pre K-12/Higher Education Collaboration Symposium, and Annual Conference as part of the program requirements.
Requirements
Minimum Participant Section Requirements are:
- At least five years of full-time PreK-12 education experience.
- Completion of at least a bachelor’s degree.
- Currently serving in a supervisory position or two years of previous supervisor experience.
Apply
Application submission deadline: Friday, June 6, 2025.
NOTE: Application season is open now. For more information, download the program brochure.
Selection Process: A selection committee will review all submissions.
Program Costs
Program cost per participant from a HACU-member institution is $3,000 and covers all program materials, HACU conference registration and selected meals. Participants will be responsible for any additional costs associated with lodging and travel to and from the program activities, meals not covered by program and incidentals. Applications/nominations from non-HACU-member institutions are also welcome and their program cost is $5,000.
Graduation
Participants receive a certificate upon completion of the program.
Get in Touch
Contact Information
Please include your name, institution and campus as part of your communication.
For questions or more information about HACU Professional Leadership Programs, please contact:
- Paul Machen, Ph.D.
- Senior Executive Director of Professional Leadership and Student Programs
- [email protected]
- (210) 576-3229