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MISD welcomes 2nd Class of Aspiring Principals Academy

Maintaining solid instructional leadership at every campus is critical for continued success in the classroom. That's why Midland ISD's Office of Learning, Leading and Innovation (LLI) launched the Aspiring Principals Academy, a cohort of select assistant principals who are preparing to lead campuses.
 
"This transformational investment is a game changer for the future of our leadership capacity," said Associate Superintendent Charlie Garcia. "People are a premium, and having a pipeline of future instructional leaders will be invaluable to the district."
Nine APs were chosen for the inaugural academy in the Spring, and 11 APs are participating this fall. While being an AP in the state of Texas already requires obtaining a master's degree, principal certification and Texas Teacher Evaluation and Support System (T-TESS) certification, all applicants apply in the same way a principal does. The process includes a written essay, letters of recommendation and a face-to-face interview.
 
The academy hosts eight professional development sessions that are filled with problem-solving lessons. The academy isn't run by third-party consultants. The LLI team is leading the way by passing on their expertise as leaders to this class.
 
Each AP is connected with a mentor principal, and the final lesson is hands-on leadership experience when they will lead this year's summers school program.
 
TRAINING FOR ALL APs
 
The Aspiring Principals Academy is only one facet of the LLI's plan to enhance leadership skills. The team conducts monthly professional learning community (PLC) sessions that provide targeted training on specific issues.
 
PLC sessions bring elementary and secondary APs together to learn from district leadership and from each other.
 
"Elementary APs are incredibly valuable in offering insight into issues surrounding reading and math skills, which helps secondary APs better serve their students who struggle in these areas," said Jeff Horner, executive director of LLI.
 
There are about 60 APs across MISD, and working together to solve problems and share solutions has been beneficial.