Principal Preparation District Partnership Programs
On-Site Classes with Strong University, College, & Faculty Involvement
Educational Leadership currently has three unique principal preparation programs formed in partnership with area school districts. These programs conduct highly selective admissions processes, forming cohort groups which are designed to prepare educational leaders specifically for the needs of that district. Each of these partnership programs provide rigorous, experiential and project-based learning to develop courageous, forward-thinking educational leaders. Curriculum and the internship experiences in these district partnership programs will focus on the development of the skills, knowledge and attributes which are necessary to lead effectively in urban schools. The partnership programs are centered around a yearlong leadership internship during which each student is supported at the internship site by a mentor principal.
These partnership programs include district participation in the recruitment and selection of students; the design and creation of the curriculum, projects, and learning experiences; the facilitation of the classes; and the evaluation of student work in relationship to the Colorado Principal Standards.
Prospective students are recruited and accepted into these partnership programs based on selection criteria established collaboratively between Educational Leadership faculty and the districts, and acceptance consideration is contingent on district nomination and specific admission requirements. Students are expected to complete all program requirements in one year and are required to be employed within the district, working to help boost the performance of students with diverse backgrounds and needs.
Successful completion of all program requirements will lead to recommendation for the Colorado principal license awarded through the Colorado State Board of Education. Credits completed in these programs may, under certain circumstances, be applied toward the Master of Arts in Educational Leadership.
Ritchie Program for School Leaders
Partnerships for the Ritchie Program for School Leaders have been developed with both the Denver Public Schools and the Adams 12 Five Star Schools. The cohort begins each summer quarter with a multi-day institute, during which students participate in community building and program instruction. In order to engage in project completion and coursework, Ritchie Fellows must have secured weekly release time from work on a weekday determined by the program. It is preferable, but not required, that Ritchie fellows work in a paid, non-teaching classroom position, such as student advisor, administrative assistant, literacy coach, staff development teacher and/or curriculum coordinator.
Upon completion of the program, the district may support graduates in their efforts to compete for position openings by making information available and by providing access to informational meetings, timelines and pre-interview coaching. The hiring of any graduate will be subject to each district's own selection and hiring process.
Should you have questions about the application and selection process, please contact the Office of Admissions at 303.871.2509 or edinfo@du.edu.
Executive Leadership for Successful Schools (ELSS) in Aurora
Executive Leadership for Successful Schools is designed to prepare school and district leaders who have the complex knowledge, skills and understanding needed to lead effective schools. We approach this preparation through use of evidence-based practice to focus on inclusive excellence, 21st century teaching and learning, and transformational leadership. Graduates will understand school-wide issues as well as community and district contexts, and will be able to communicate and lead to ensure a successful educational experience for all students. The 30-quarter-hour program is designed to be completed in one calendar year. Learning is fostered through a blended program of interactive online study, weekend cohort workshops offered at the APS campus, and varied field experiences. The program is aligned to meet state and national standards for educational leadership excellence. A new cohort begins every June.
Should you have questions about the application and selection process, please contact the Office of Admissions at 303.871.2509 or edinfo@du.edu.
