The Aspiring Superintendents Academy is Designed for Experienced District Leaders, Building Leaders, and Teacher Leaders Who Aspire to the Role of Superintendent.
This academy was designed by Washington Association of School Administrators (WASA) and Association of Educational Service Districts (AESD) with support from the American Association of School Administrators (AASA).
The 2024–25 Aspiring Superintendents Academy will be facilitated by former Hood Canal Superintendent and current WASA Assistant Executive Director, Shawn Batstone.
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:
“The WASA Aspiring Superintendents Academy has been an invaluable journey, confirming my passion for educational leadership and preparing me for the role of Superintendent. I've found a supportive environment that challenges me to grow while connecting with experienced superintendents, enriching my understanding and vision for future success.” — Jenny Rodriquez, Incoming Superintendent, Ridgefield
“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
“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 interactive professional development opportunity.” — Christine Del Pozo, Stanwood Camano
“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
CURRICULUM
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Leadership and YOU
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Systems of Learning
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Budgets/Facilities
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Communication
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Personnel
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Politics/Law
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School Board Relations/Policy
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Community/Union/Family Engagement
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Getting my First Superintendency
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Case Studies
COMMITMENT
- Tuition fee of $1,995
- Attend monthly Zoom meetings
- Connect with your assigned mentor
- Complete district entry plan, search and reflection
- Attend AASA National Conference (encouraged)
- Travel and housing expenses, if applicable
REGISTRATION
Registration fee of $1,995 per person includes ten (10) three-hour Zoom sessions and 30 Washington State Approved Clock Hours (based on actual participation).
REGISTER
ZOOM ACCESS
Within 24 hours of registering, you will receive a Zoom confirmation for each academy session, eleven in total. Follow the link in each confirmation to save the meetings to your calendar.
Only one device/person will be admitted per email so please do not share your Zoom link.
CANCELLATION POLICY
A $75 administrative fee applies to all cancellations. No refund for cancellations received after August 15.
QUESTIONS
Please contact Ryan Hickerson at rhickerson@wasa-oly.org with registration questions.