This program introduces teachers and other aspiring leaders to the administrator’s role. The program is based on research and best practices in school leadership, including the Delaware Leader Standards and the Quality Measures Rubric for Principal Leadership Programs. All activities are hands-on and applied to the practical realities of schools, districts and charters.

The Aspiring Leaders program meets one afternoon/evening a month. Each month features a different element of school leadership such as:

• Management and Operations
• Administrative Services
• Budget and Finance
• Personnel and Legal Issues
• Data Analysis
• Student Services and Special Education
• Collaboration and Team Building
• Mock Interviews and Resume Reviews

Participants develop a portfolio and participate in a resume review and mock interview. They also complete homework assignments following each session and identify a school or district mentor to provide support through the duration of the program. DASL staff members will provide ongoing support to participants and their mentors. For further information, please refer to the program syllabus.

DASL piloted the Aspiring Leaders program statewide in 2009-10. 35 participants representing 13 of Delaware's 19 school districts participated.

For 2010-11, DASL can customize an Aspiring Leaders program for any district or charter school.

For more information please contact Sharon Brittingham, DASL Associate, at 302-855-1628 or sharonbr@udel.edu.