The Aspiring Superintendents Academy is Designed for Experienced District Leaders, Building Leaders, and Teacher Leaders Who Aspire to the Role of Superintendent.  
This academy is designed for those experienced district leaders, building leaders, and teacher leaders who aspire to the role of superintendent. The 2023–24 Aspiring Superintendents Academy is being led by former Rochester Superintendent and current WASA Professional Learning Coordinator, Kim Fry.

Whether you have already attained your superintendent certification or are thinking of entering a certification program, this professional learning opportunity will energize you around the possibilities!

TESTIMONIALS

Following are testimonials from several of our past academy participants:

“Participating in the aspiring superintendent academy has allowed me to learn from experts in the field. These experts have shared what it takes to be a superintendent, tips on what to do your first year, and how to establish relationships and trust among new colleagues. I highly recommend this valuable and interacting professional development opportunity.” – Christine Del Pozo, Stanwood-Camano SD

“ASA been a great opportunity to network with amazing leaders from around the state. I have enjoyed learning and collaborating from current and past Superintendents in the field. The content has been exceptional.” — Hannah Coffman, Bridgeport SD

“My experience being part of the Aspiring Superintendent Academy has been transformational. The academy has fostered deep learning and cultivated actionable dispositions to becoming the best equity-driven leader I can be. I have learned so much about becoming a superintendent, from being the instructional leader (strategic plan/vision), key district communicator, financial steward, personnel/facilities management, facilities, and the all-import board relations. I highly recommend the Aspiring Superintendents Academy to any leader who is considering the superintendency.” — José Rivera, Grandview SD

“This program has helped to enhance my knowledge of the role of superintendent by providing opportunities to learn from an impressive cadre of successful district leaders. Hearing from practicing and past superintendents helped contextualize the experience of the job and allowed me to start to imagine myself in the role.” — Jake Tyrrell, Steilacoom SD

"The Aspiring Superintendents Academy is an excellent opportunity to learn from phenomenal practitioners as well as connect with a cohort of colleagues interested in honing their craft." — Ryan Ovenell, Stanwood-Camano SD

“As a busy educator, participating in the Aspiring Superintendent Academy allowed me to gain valuable insights and skills while still managing my daily responsibilities. The program's flexible schedule and practical curriculum have equipped me with the knowledge and confidence to pursue my aspirations in educational leadership.” — Kevin Ryan, Adna SD

"The Aspiring Superintendent Academy sessions have been informative and thought provoking. They have reaffirmed my belief that I am indeed ready to pursue the next step in the progression of my educational career." — Mark Westley, Adna SD

CURRICULUM

• Leadership and YOU

•  Systems of Learning

• Budgets/Facilities

• Communication

• Personnel

• Politics/Law

• School Board Relations/Policy

• Community/Union/Family Engagement

• Getting my First Superintendency

• Case Studies

COMMITMENT

• Tuition fee of $1,995
• Attend monthly Zoom meetings
• Connect with your assigned mentor
• Complete Capstone Project
• Attend AASA National Conference (encouraged)
• Travel and housing expenses, if applicable

QUESTIONS
Please contact Lisa Gehman at lgehman@wasa-oly.org with registration questions.
Please contact Kim Fry, Project Director, at kfry@wasa-oly.org with questions about the academy curriculum and program.