A new certificate program, the School Leadership Academy through the La Sierra University School of Education, was launched at the end of June. It provides fledgling school leaders with the best chances for success by instructing them in strategies and practices for dealing with key challenge areas.

The academy, a training program designed for K-12 education leaders, hosted the first cohort of 12 administrators and teachers for four days between June 24-27, 2024. The group engaged in curriculum that covered such critical areas as assessment strategies, effective teacher evaluation methods, school budget management, conflict resolution, disciplinary best practices, special needs, instructional leadership techniques, sustainable leadership strategies, work-life balance, and time management optimization, among other topics.

A panel of education leaders provided their insights and expertise during the academy. Panelists included William Arnold, associate superintendent of schools for the Southeastern California Conference (SECC) of Seventh-day Adventists (SECC), Jonathan Park, president of SECC, Alfred Riddle, principal of Mesa Grande Academy, Datha Tickner, SECC superintendent of schools, Wayne Dunbar, La Sierra’s vice president for enrollment services and others. 

“This academy is not just about education, it’s about empowering school leadership,” Arnold said. “We're equipping leaders to drive meaningful change and meet high educational standards for all students.” 

The school leadership academy was developed at La Sierra University due to the need expressed by education directors at Seventh-day Adventist conferences who requested special training for new principals in their regions, said Keith Drieberg, La Sierra University School of Education’s chair of curriculum and instruction, a panelist and academy organizer. The inaugural cohort included teachers and principals from K-8 and K-12 Adventist schools in California, Arizona, and Hawaii. 

At the conclusion of the academy, participants received certificates of achievement and support to implement their newly-acquired skills. 

The next Leadership Academy will be held within the next year or two and will be offered to local school district partners, Drieberg said. “We are forging the next generation of principals, providing them with the tools and practical strategies to redefine school leadership for the future of K-12 education.” 

La Sierra University, a Christian Seventh-day Adventist institution nationally acclaimed for its diverse campus, its service to others and its 'best value' education offers a transformational experience that lasts a lifetime. “To Seek, To Know, and To Serve” are the keys to the mission that drives the university, with all areas of campus encouraging students to develop a deeper relationship with God.

The original article was published on the North American Division website.