You know it when you see it — an aspiring leader who has the passion and desire to make a difference beyond one classroom.

Help those teachers reach their potential by letting them know about Leadership Institute, ACSA’s Preliminary Administrative Services Credential program that prepares teacher leaders to take the first step toward becoming a school administrator.

In partnership with Sacramento County Office of Education, ACSA is now accepting applications for the Fall 2025 cohort of Leadership Institute, which begins in August 2025.

Since 2017, the program has helped more than 390 candidates grow in their leadership abilities through synchronous online learning, guided fieldwork, premier CalAPA support and an end-of-program showcase.

Over the course of this 10-month program, candidates engage in six courses that delve into equity-driven 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.

“The ACSA preliminary credential program puts you in touch with real world leaders in education,” said Aftan Wright, assistant principal at Sunnymeadows Elementary School in Moreno Valley USD and 2021 graduate of ACSA’s Leadership Institute. “I was able to get advice and expand my résumé by landing an administrative position in MVUSD. The experiences I have achieved have prepared me for my future in administration.”

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 five scholarships will be awarded and will range between $500 to $1,000. Apply by May 1 at bit.ly/LeadershipInstituteScholarships. There is also an option to earn professional learning units.

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.

“There’s never been a greater need to tap on the shoulders of those who you think have the capacity to be our next great leaders. The time is now for districts to build their bench and grow capacity from within,” said Tamerin Tooker, ACSA director of Credential and Coaching Services. “ACSA’s program is uniquely positioned to provide candidates support through our vast statewide network and we provide all candidates free ACSA membership from day one of their program.”

ACSA will be hosting a series of informational meetings for those interested in learning more about earning their Preliminary Administrative Services Credential. Aspiring leaders are invited to join one of these sessions and learn how ACSA can help them take the first step in becoming an education leader.