Principal Preparation District Partnership Programs
These programs provide rigorous, experiential and project-based learning to develop courageous, forward-thinking educational leaders.
Ritchie Program for School Leaders
The Ritchie Program for School Leaders cohort begins each summer quarter with a five-day retreat, during which students will participate in community building and program instruction. Following the retreat, in order to engage in approximately one day of coursework per week, Ritchie Fellows (students) must have approval for release time from 1-7 p.m. 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.
Partnerships for the program have been developed with both the Denver Public Schools and the Adams Twelve Five Star Schools.
Aurora Public Schools Leadership Academy (APSLA)
A slightly different partnership design, APSLA cohorts begin with district academic year start-up activities in the summer, but students do not register for classes until the fall quarter. APSLA holds as its purpose to provide a rigorous course of study to prepare individuals to become school principals who are instructional leaders in the Aurora Public Schools.
The program's theory of action is based on the understanding that teacher expertise is the primary influence on student achievement. Students in APSLA are prepared to develop basic skills, understanding, and knowledge with the staff and community that advance the school's effectiveness in accomplishing its goals and enhance the learning and development of all children. APSLA outcomes are based on Colorado standards for administrators and school principals, and focus on student achievement and teacher development.
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 either the Master of Arts or PhD in Educational Administration.
The program is a partnership with Aurora Public Schools.
Program Participation
Both the Ritchie and APSLA 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 Administration 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, in schools in urban communities to help boost the performance of students with diverse backgrounds and needs.
Curriculum and the internship experiences in these district partnership programs 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.
To speak to someone about the Principal Preparation District Partnership Programs, please call or email our Admissions Office at 303-871-2509 or 1-800-835-1607, edinfo@du.edu.