Besides teachers, nothing has a greater impact on student achievement than a high-quality principal.

Principals who are better prepared to meet the challenges of site leadership are more likely to stay in their roles for longer, having a lasting positive influence on academic performance and school climate and culture.

As current school leaders move up their career ladders or leave the profession, it is crucial to ensure that there is a pool of well-prepared, capable leaders ready to take their places. ACSA is shaping tomorrow’s leaders today through the Leadership Institute, a Preliminary Administrative Services Credential program that equips teacher leaders to become effective, equity-driven school administrators.

In partnership with Sacramento County Office of Education, ACSA is now accepting applications for the Fall 2026 cohort of Leadership Institute, which begins in August 2026. Since 2017, the program has helped more than 400 candidates grow in their leadership abilities through synchronous online learning, guided fieldwork, and premier CalAPA support.

Over the course of this 10-month program, candidates engage in six courses that delve into equity-centered leadership skills and systems, and how they must interact to create intentional change and inform school improvement. Candidates receive instruction and coaching from current and retired administrators who have intimate knowledge of school leadership. Students gain insight into solving the biggest challenges in education from leaders who are facing them right now.

Taught by current principals, superintendents and district leaders, the program offers flexibility without any “fluff,” said Hannah Johnson, a graduate from the sixth cohort of Leadership Institute.

“Every moment, whether in-person classes or weekly coaching sessions, was maximized effectively,” she said. “This approach ensured my success in passing the CalAPAs and transitioning seamlessly into an administrative role, all while managing a full-time job.”

Those who enroll in Leadership Institute also benefit from free student ACSA membership while enrolled, personalized CalAPA coaching, and career preparation and placement support. Scholarships are available: Up to 25 scholarships will be awarded in amounts ranging from $500 to $1,000. Apply by June 1 at bit.ly/LeadershipInstituteScholarships.

As current site leaders consider retirement or moving up, it’s crucial that districts identify the next generation of diverse leaders who can continue the work.

“Now more than ever, we are called to recognize the promise in those around us and invite them to lead. The time is now for districts to build a deep bench, growing leadership from within,” said Dr. Tamerin Tooker, ACSA director of Credential and Coaching Services. “ACSA’s program surrounds every candidate with a statewide network of mentors and peers, and from day one of their program, each candidate receives free ACSA membership, opening doors to opportunities, relationships, and resources that ignite their leadership journey.”