What You Will Learn

Through a year-long cohort program, the Innovative Leaders Institute moves school leader preparation into real school settings. We support leaders by providing a hands-on curriculum taught by current, effective school experts. Through a rigorous selection process, research-based curriculum, mentoring and problem-based learning strategies, we develop a supportive professional learning community you need.

The curriculum focuses on five major themes: instruction; collaboration, continuous improvement; school operations resources and learning environment; and parent and community engagement. Participants will engage in structured learning activities on a number of topics such as adaptive and distributive leadership, problem-based learning, meaningful professional development, marketing, and partnerships. Each in-person session includes a tour of an innovative school as well as a discussion with the school leaders.

Who Should Attend

If you want to be an adaptive leader for your school, the Innovative Leaders Institute is for you. The institute is designed for school building leaders. These include principals, assistant principals or teacher-leaders on track to take a leadership role in their school. 

Dual application requirement: Applicants are required to apply in pairs with another leader from their school. We want you to be successful. Our experience in school change has shown that leaders driving innovation need a partner. That’s why we require applicants to experience the institute with a partner from their school. A second ally is essential to helping you execute on your innovative vision.

School leaders must be able to respond decisively to the issues at hand but also be able to learn from decisions and adjust plans. They surround themselves with technical experts and are not afraid to challenge the status quo. If you believe in innovation, we can give you the skills to maximize your impact.