For Principals
Principals' Institute
Overview
In 2010, the Principals’ Institute (PI) was established with an emphasis on operationalizing the work of the superintendents’
Visioning Institute and its product, Creating a New Vision for Public Education in Texas (Visioning Document). PI is a year-long
professional development series that provides a unique opportunity for principals to understand why transformation of public
education is necessary, and develop the knowledge and skills required to lead and build the capacity to sustain transformation
over time.
The future of Texas public schools depends on the quality of its leaders. Attending PI allows principals to experience one of the
most noteworthy professional growth opportunities in their career and collaborate with the innovative PI network that now stretches
nationwide. In 2017, PI introduced Schools Transforming Learning, a designation program recognizing campuses
led by PI principals that are making exceptional strides toward transforming learning for students.
Sessions
Each session is developed by a Design Team consisting of former and current Principals’ Institute participants and the N2 Learning partners. This collaborative effort results in
sessions focused on the topics and current issues relevant to the work of campus principals.
Session 1
Focus:
- Establish the purpose and begin developing the culture of the cohort
- Introduce the Creating a New Vision for Public Education in Texas document and other publications that
will be utilized throughout the Institute
- Introduce resources and tools for reflection
Session 2
Focus:
- Adding value to the learning environment while inspiring creative and innovative thinking
- Provide opportunities for collaboration and building a Professional Learning Network
- Featured speaker: Dwight Carter
Session 3
Focus:
- Understanding the psychology of change and coping strategies
- Utilizing student voice to create a culture of learning
- Identify a transformation target
- Featured speaker: Rob Evans
Session 4
This session will coincide with TASA Midwinter Conference.
Focus:
- Identifying implications of both organizational and personal change
- True accountability
- Public education advocacy
- Featured Speaker: John Tanner
Session 5
Focus:
- Telling your story
- Transformation Target
- Featured speaker: Jill Siler
Session 6
Annual Conference:
- Announcement and celebration of Schools Transforming Learning campuses
- Breakout sessions focused on Transformation Targets implemented at STL campuses
- Keynote Speaker
“I enjoyed the networking with other leaders across the state of Texas who had the same level of passion for students and teachers as I did.”
Jennifer Peirson, McKinney ISD
“Principals' Institute was a safe place to say as a leader, this is working at our school and this is what I need help with. It was valuable to see how districts are so
different and yet how we could network and share ideas together.”
Katie Brittain, Plano ISD
“I felt like the Principals' Institute has empowered me as a principal. I have learned that I am the chief marketing executive for our school. It is my job to tell the
story about all of the great things we do at our campus and in public education.”
Jessica McDonald, Northwest ISD
As a 20-year administrator, The Principals' Institute has done more to shape my leadership
than any other single experience. If you thrive in an environment of passionate educators,
committed to transform public education, you will find it here. The topics discussed are
thought-provoking, and you will leave every experience with ideas that will help you succeed
in your work. Join us and connect to greatness!
Mark McCord, Katy ISD
Participating in the Principals' Visioning Institute has been one of the highlights of my career.
I left each session feeling re-energized, more grounded in the vision for 21st century schools,
and more confident in my abilities at leading transformation on my campus. It truly was the
ultimate gift!
Kristi King, Northwest ISD
All of Our Initiatives Offer
Hands-on learning from experienced district leaders
- Listen and learn from current superintendents and research experts
- Benefit from educational leaders as your facilitators
Collaboration with administrators from across the state of Texas
- Learn alongside colleagues from a variety of school districts
- Discuss issues with peers using protocols that provide equitable contributions
Focused on the Creating a New Vision for Public Schools in Texas document
- Dive into information created to transform leadership of learning
- Engage in a think tank with peers about change for the future
Reflective processes that enhance strong leadership development
- Participate in meaningful experiences through application of ideas
- Challenge your thinking and problem solving with other leaders