Applications Now Open: AASA Leadership Academies
January 02, 2026
Building the leadership pipeline that transforms student outcomes
The leaders shaping public education's future need more than credentials — they need the skills to navigate unprecedented change while keeping students front and center. That's why we're excited to share applications for AASA's 2026-27 leadership academies and National Superintendent Certification Program® are now open!
These academies are designed to strengthen the pipeline from school leadership to the superintendency.
National Principal Supervisor Academy
Transform how districts support principals at scale through this partnership with the University of Washington's Center for Educational Leadership. Move from evaluation to coaching excellence with standards-based training, individual coaching, peer learning communities, and real problems of practice.
Choose in-person or virtual format | September 2025 - May 2026 | Applications due September 1, 2026
Aspiring Superintendents Academies
Year-long programs preparing the next generation of district leaders to fulfill the Public Education Promise. Multiple pathways designed for diverse leaders:
- Aspiring Superintendents Academy®
- Aspiring Superintendents Academy® Academy for Women Leaders
- Aspiring Superintendents Academy® for Latino/a Leaders
- Urban Superintendents Academy (partnership with Howard University and USC Rossier)
National Superintendent Certification Program
AASA's National Superintendent Certification Program® supports early-career and experienced superintendents as they navigate the essential work of preparing students to graduate not only as good students but as good citizens, ready to succeed in college, career, or whatever path they choose.
Applications due September 18, 2026.
Ready to Invest in Leadership That Changes Lives?
America's children get one shot at K-12 education. The leaders guiding them need to be prepared to make it count. Whether you're coaching principals to instructional excellence, aspiring to lead an entire district, or a superintendent new to the role, these opportunities will equip you with the skills, networks, and vision to lead schools where every student is known, supported, and prepared for real life in the real world.
Questions? Contact Valerie Truesdale at vtruesdale@aasa.org.
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