Over the last three years, New York City public schools have posted notable gains in student achievement. However, the work of improving New York City schools is far from over. New York City public schools continue to need exceptional and motivated instructional leaders who are dedicated to achieving measurable improvements in student learning so that all children can reach their full potential.

Strong school leadership is essential to ensuring that a school is successful and can serve as the catalyst for achieving the kind of fundamental change many schools require. Designed and delivered by expert educational practitioners, the Leadership Academy’s Aspiring Principals Program (APP) is an innovative, 14-month program that prepares educators to work creatively and collaboratively to address educational challenges and to close the achievement gap. Today, in schools throughout the City, APP graduates are realizing their visions for achieving educational excellence. The Leadership Academy invites you to join this exciting community of visionary leaders by applying for the 2008-2009 APP class.

• Innovative program design and curricula that uses problem-based and action-learning methodologies in the classroom and school residency settings and is aligned with the unique context of the New York City public school principalship

• Support that is tailored to each participant’s individual learning style and leadership development needs

• The opportunity to join a diverse community of life-long learners dedicated to social justice and school improvement

Admission to APP is highly selective: APP selected only 16% of those who submitted completed applications for the 2007-08 class. APP candidates who are selected to participate in the program must demonstrate the following:

Applicants must have:

• A 3.0 minimum GPA in their undergraduate or graduate degrees; and

• A minimum of 5 years of work experience, with at least 3 years in a paid position as a K - 12 teacher.

The application and selection process consists of:

• Written Application: The application requires a description of the candidate's education and professional experience, essays and the submission of professional recommendations. Candidates must complete and submit this application on-line.

• Interviews: After reviewing the on-line applications, the Leadership Academy will invite candidates who advance to the next phase of the selection process to participate in both group and individual interviews that include role playing exercises, a reviewing of past educational and professional experiences and the submission of writing samples.

• Deadlines: APP has a rolling admissions process, meaning that the Leadership Academy considers applications as they are submitted. Therefore, it is in your best interest to apply as early as possible before the class fills up.