Leadership academy cohort graduates

The second Leadership Academy cohort will graduate on Thursday, May 19, having begun on February 7. Over 40 VISD educators and staff members participated in the 3 to 4-month long cohort designed to build the leadership capacity of professional employees across the district.

VISD’s Leadership Academy supports the District Strategic Plan Talent Development findings and directions: 

  • We believe exceptional staff are what makes students’ success possible.

  • We believe we will become an everyone culture where everyone feels they belong.

During the cohort, educators and staff participated in many activities that equipped current and prospective leaders with job-specific skills and knowledge. Sessions provided choice to the participants and allowed for panel discussions from current leaders.

A highlight of the cohort was the opportunity to participate in job shadowing with a highly effective VISD leader.  Additionally, participants were also coached in job interview best practices and allowed to set up mock interviews to receive specific feedback that will guide them in their leadership journey. 

“I am beyond thankful to work for a district that invests in my career goals,” said Extended Learning Program Specialist Patti Rowland. “Leadership Academy not only gave me insight into the perspective of a principal but also opened my eyes to many of the other roles that work behind the scenes and enable students to be successful.” 

The Leadership Academy was open to all current VISD professional staff employees and is required for those who plan to enter into a leadership position in VISD prior to filling that role.