If you are a new first- or second-year superintendent attending the Superintendents Symposium in January, the New Superintendents’ Pre-conference Workshop is professional development designed specifically for you.

In these unprecedented times, the new superintendent cannot and should not navigate alone. Former superintendents and directors of the ACSA New Superintendents’ Seminar Series Dr. Trudy Arriaga and Dr. Jason Peplinski are joined by exemplary, retired superintendents Dr. Vincent Matthews and Parvin Ahmadi to deliver a 1.5-day learning experience for new superintendents. They fully understand the complexity of the superintendent position and the need to have targeted professional development for this unique role.

The committee has planned timely topics presented by expert voices. The topics are specific to the role of the new superintendent in these unprecedented times, to include: equity, diversity and inclusion, navigating district budgets, governor’s proposed budget, superintendent evaluations and contract, your leadership legacy, and LGBTQIA updates. There will also be breakout sessions of your choosing to include: How to Build a Team, Mahmoud v Taylor, Legal Considerations to Avoid Lawsuits, Working with the Board, Brown Act, AB715, Ethnic Studies, Leading While Female, Community Outreach, Mentoring and Passing a Bond/Parcel Tax. We guarantee that the variety of options will further prepare you to examine emerging challenges and be successful in your role as superintendent. You will be given virtual access to all resources and presentations and contact information for all presenters.

The New Superintendents’ Workshop attendees will join the 2025-26 cohort of participants of the New Superintendents’ Seminar Series, which will provide a tremendous opportunity for networking, sharing challenges and successes, and building supportive professional relationships. You will have the opportunity to join like-size school districts in conversation as you navigate specific challenges based on district size. New superintendents will benefit from the formation of lasting relationships with fellow new superintendents, which will become a strong network of supportive peers to depend on far into the future.

This confidential forum allows all new superintendents to learn, share, and move forward with confidence in their leadership role. Successful current and retired superintendents, as well as top leaders in the field will provide timely information in their areas of expertise and share their wisdom and knowledge of navigating this unique position.

The role of the superintendent increases in complexity every year. This upcoming year will be a rewarding yet challenging time to be a new superintendent as you navigate the ever-changing landscape of education. The New Superintendents’ Pre-Conference Workshop provides professional development and the support designed for every new superintendent, large or small school district, to thrive and be successful!