You did it! On behalf of ACSA, I would like to offer congratulations on your selection as superintendent of schools in your district! With your appointment you have joined a small group of dedicated and skilled school leaders in California who share an opportunity to positively shape the future of a district and thereby provide a pathway for thousands of students to access and unleash their human potential.

As a new superintendent, you may be wondering: Where do I begin? Look no further than ACSA’s New Superintendents Seminar Series, which is designed exclusively for first- and second-year superintendents. Join a strong cohort of new superintendents to tackle current issues in a confidential and supportive setting with the guidance of successful superintendents and educational partners. Now is the time to secure your spot as the series starts on Sept. 13.

For over 26 years, ACSA has recognized the benefit and the necessity for first- and second-year California superintendents to receive training, support and interaction via a professional cohort through the New Superintendents Seminar Series. This series focuses on the challenges and opportunities commonly encountered by a first- and second-year superintendent. This is the only professional development offered by ACSA specifically for new superintendents.

As co-leaders of the program, Jason Peplinski and I have a combined 22 years of experience as district superintendents, which we will enthusiastically share with this year’s cohort. We have thoughtfully planned the topics, discussions and presentations to align with each season of the school superintendent’s first/second year. Sessions will be timely, relevant, interactive and designed to help each cohort member achieve a high level of success in year one and pre-position them for future success as well. Topics that directly impact superintendent success will be discussed thoroughly, including goal setting, superintendent contract and evaluation, board relationships, governance, collective bargaining, human resources, fiscal accountability and building a strong district culture.

NSSS will provide you with a cohort of colleagues who will navigate and celebrate the unique role of the superintendent. As one former participant said, “If you can only choose one professional development, choose NSSS!” We hope that you consider joining this year’s group of NSSS colleagues, all of whom share the unique opportunity and responsibility of executive leadership in a year where leadership will be needed and appreciated more than ever before.

To register today, go to acsa.org/nsss. Hope to see you at the New Superintendents Seminar Series!

For questions please contact Trudy Arriaga at trudyarriaga73@gmail.com.