New Visions in Leadership Academy
Today’s principals and assistant principals must be leaders in business, human resources, and instruction who motivate teachers and students to new levels of success. Beyond traditional training programs offered by universities and school districts, Houston A+ Challenge offers a unique blend of leadership development that focuses on building and sustaining support for whole-school improvement.
More than 300 seated school leaders from Houston-area K-12 districts have graduated from Houston A+ Challenge’s two-year New Visions in Leadership Academy since 1999. Elementary, middle and high school leaders from Houston area school districts participate.
Sitting principals and vice principals meet in groups to develop their leadership styles, discuss common problems and solutions in change management, and learn new techniques for helping teachers reach and inspire today’s students.
School leaders began their Academy training with a three-day summer institute emphasizing team building and visioning. Participants utilize 360 evaluations to develop and implement leadership improvement plans, meet monthly as a cohort with leadership coaches and participate in four more multi-day leadership retreats over two years.
Fellows also attend small-group seminars with Academy alumni and national recognized authors and speakers; in 2006-07, these included Tony Wagner (co-director of Harvard University’s Change Leadership Group), Michael Fullan (renowned author of Turnaround Leadership) and Grant Wiggins (author of Understanding by Design).
REVIEWS
“Out of all the things that I have done to improve myself as a leader, this has been the most valuable.”
Paul Castro, Principal
Westside High School, Houston ISD
"I find the Leadership Academy Cohort Groups very stimulating. They provide opportunities to sit with successful practitioners and dialogue about issues that affect education. They also give me a support cadre to assist in diagnosing "best practices," as well as major problems. I have truly enjoyed the experiences that I have been afforded."
Gina Rigsby, Principal
Ruby Reed Intermediate, Aldine ISD
"The Academy has awesome leaders and visionary, thoughtful individuals. The experience is invaluable, far better than a 'beginners' course in administration."
Lawrence Kohn, Former Principal
Atascocita High School, Humble ISD
