Currently, only five percent of public school superintendents are women, Black or Hispanic. Key barriers can include lack of specialized and real world leadership training targeted to aspiring educators and a disconnect with peers with shared goals.

ABOUT
How can the public school landscape and students be positively impacted by more leaders from underrepresented groups?
Kick start your LEADERSHIP LEVEL UP to prepare for superintendency.
The Southern University Academy for Current and Aspiring Superintendents is designed to prepare K-12 educators – current and aspiring principals and Central Office staff – for the role of a public school superintendent.
The 10-week program is virtual, and includes two in-person sessions at Southern University A&M College, the nation’s only HBCU System. Upon completion participants will earn graduate credit to apply to Southern University School of Education.
Facilitated by experienced education leaders, our curriculum (PSEL standards-based), will cover pertinent topics to LEVEL UP your leadership skills, confidence and opportunities, including:
- Day-to-Day District Operations
- District Budgeting
- Board Relations
- Communications and Marketing
- Community Engagement.
SESSIONS
*Kickoff - January 24 - 25, 2025
January 29, 2025
February 5, 2025
February 12, 2025
February 19, 2025
February 26, 2025
March 5, 2025
March 12, 2025
March 19, 2025
*Closing Session - March 26, 2025
Investment: $6,000 | Financial support available
PROGRAM BENEFITS
ACADEMY COACHES
Dr. Constance Evelyn
Former Superintendent;
Valley Stream 13 (NY)
Dr. Sito Narcisse
Former Superintendent; East Baton Rouge Parish School System (LA), Managing Partner; SJ Apple Consulting Group
Dr. Verna Ruffin
Former Superintendent;
Waterbury Public Schools (CT)
Dr. Charles Foust
Former Superintendent; New Hanover Schools (NC)
Dr. Avis Williams
Former Superintendent;
NOLA Public Schools (LA)
PROGRAM CRITERIA
Interest in becoming a superintendent in an urban or rural school district as one of the following:
A Community Champion
Currently serving in your first or second year as an active superintendent and assistant/deputy superintendent role.
An Emerging Leader
Working as a longtime educator focused on gaining the credentials needed to step into a leadership role.
A Change Advocate
Currently serving as Central Office employee or policy specialist, seasoned in administrative roles and passionate about systemic change.