Aspiring Leaders Program
Jefferson County Public Schools & Spalding University
Developing the next generation of equity-centered K-12 leaders in Jefferson County
Overview
In partnership with JCPS on the Wallace Foundation Equity-Centered Pipeline Initiative, the Aspiring Leaders Program is designed to fast-track educators into becoming equity-focused leaders in Jefferson County Public Schools. The program is open to JCPS teachers interested in pursuing Kentucky Principal Certification through a Master of Education in Instructional Leadership for Rank I or Rank II program. The 30-hour hybrid program is staffed and designed by former/current JCPS educators and mixes face-to-face and online content
Ready For Your Next Step?
Start your journey as an Aspiring Leader.
Program Pillars
The Aspiring Leaders Program is built on three pillars designed to meet the needs of JCPS students and the communities they live in.
Racial Equity
We are committed to the creation of just, equitable and liberating educational opportunities designed to dismantle institutional and systemic racism and oppression.
Culture & Climate
At Spalding and within the Jefferson County community, we take pride in our diverse and inclusive community of learners dedicated to meeting the needs of the time.
Backpack of Success Skills
We believe that students, both at the K-12 and post-secondary levels, should learn and grow in environments that promote innovation, collaboration, communication, global and cultural competency, and resiliency.
Equity-Centered Leadership Framework: The Spalding Six
Spalding University has constructed a framework of six core principles that ground our work and growth in equitable educational practices — referred to as The Spalding Six.
Implement rigorous & inclusive academic & student support programming
Ensure equitable talent & operational management practices
Disrupt power imbalances & systemic oppression in schools
Leverage support from district, school & community partners
Engage in self-reflection for personal & professional leadership development
Promote accountability through continuous improvement to ensure equitable outcomes for all students
Accelerated & Affordable Program
The Aspiring Leaders Program was designed to get educators into leadership positions as soon as possible. The accelerated 30-hour course load can be completed in a single academic year and earn you either a first or second Master’s degree for Rank I or II certification.
- Face-to-face classes & online content delivery
- Weekly evening classes on Wednesdays or Thursdays
- Two half-day Saturday sessions each month
- Monthly Aspiring Leaders Series Seminars (Topics: Turnaround Leadership, Cultural Humility, Disruptive Leadership)
- Only $425/credit hour
Accelerated & Affordable Program
The Aspiring Leaders Program was designed to get educators into leadership positions as soon as possible. The accelerated 30-hour course load can be completed in a single academic year and earn you either a first or second Master’s degree for Rank I or II certification.
- Face-to-face classes & online content delivery
- Weekly evening classes on Wednesdays or Thursdays
- Two half-day Saturday sessions each month
- Monthly Aspiring Leaders Series Seminars (Topics: Turnaround Leadership, Cultural Humility, Disruptive Leadership)
- Only $425/credit hour
Accelerated & Affordable Program
Applicants must meet the following requirements for consideration into the program:
- Valid Kentucky teaching certification
- Completion of at least three (3) years of full-time teaching experience in a public or non-public school
- Hold a Bachelor’s degree and/or Master’s degree with a 2.75 GPA
- A current JCPS employee
Application Prerequisites
Applicants must meet the following requirements for consideration into the program:
- Valid Kentucky teaching certification
- Completion of at least three (3) years of full-time teaching experience in a public or non-public school
- Hold a Bachelor’s degree and/or Master’s degree with a 2.75 GPA
- A current JCPS employee
Want to Learn More?
See the full Aspiring Leaders brochure.
Ready For Your Next Step?
Become a leader in JCPS.
Helpful Resources
How Do I Apply?
You can apply and submit your application to The Aspiring Leaders Program by going to
Admissions Questions
Office of Admissions
Office Hours: Monday — Friday, 9:00 AM — 5:00 PM
Email: [email protected]
Phone: (502) 585-7111
Contact Us
Have questions about the Aspiring Leaders Program? Please contact Dr. Glenn Baete, Director of Advanced Programs in the College of Education.
Email: [email protected]
Phone: (502) 873-4271