Former successful superintendents and directors of the New Superintendents Seminar Series, Trudy Arriaga and Jason Peplinski, fully understand the complexity of the superintendent position and the need to have targeted, professional development in a confidential cohort setting for newly appointed superintendents. This professional learning series has successfully assisted first- and second-year superintendents for the past 28 years. Superintendents benefit from forming lasting relationships with fellow new superintendents that become a network of support reaching far into the future.

Successful current and retired superintendents will lead discussions in their areas of expertise and share their wisdom and knowledge of this unique position. Participants are guaranteed to receive their contact information should they ever need their experience and expertise as challenges and opportunities arise.

Topics for the sessions will be specific to the unique challenges of these unprecedented times and will include:

Time is devoted in each session to confidentially discuss current issues in participants’ districts.

The following testimonials from four of the 37 superintendents who made up the 2023-24 cohort of New Superintendents Seminar Series are the true evidence that this is an essential investment for the new superintendent.

Nicole Welsey, superintendent of Redondo Beach Unified School District: “When becoming a superintendent, no matter how long you have served on cabinet or other leadership positions, you simply don’t know what you don’t know. NSSS gives you the resources and tools necessary to survive as you transition into the superintendency role. It gives you a well-rounded perspective of the value and impact of this position. It gives you focus, a voice and a network of new and former superintendents who are a simple phone call away. I started the program in a fog and ended it on a clear path. Thank you NSSS team and ACSA.”

Devin Serrano, superintendent, Palos Verdes Peninsula Unified School District: “The sessions were timely and relevant and allowed for conversations that supported my growth and development as a new superintendent. Each session left me re-energized and ready for the work ahead. Expert facilitators coupled with relevant content made NSSS one of the best professional experiences of my career.”

Carlos Dominguez, superintendent, Briggs Elementary School District: “Our group engaged in conversations that were open, honest and allowed for vulnerability. As a result, I left each session feeling empowered and energized. I highly recommend NSSS to all new superintendents!”

Antonio Shelton, superintendent, Santa Monica-Malibu Unified School District: “Each session provided me with important information that I needed this year to successfully navigate my new role. Each weekend that I spent with my fellow new superintendents has given me a group of professionals that I will connect with throughout the duration of my career, creating lifelong relationships that will grow as we become seasoned superintendents.”

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 navigating the ever-changing landscape of education. The New Superintendents Seminar Series provides professional development and the support designed for every new superintendent, large or small school district, to thrive and be successful.