KRS 156.111 requires that training and testing be provided in the areas of school finance, school law, school management, school based decision-making, and curriculum and assessment. This content and other supporting content is presented in seven modules identified and designed by a team of some of Kentucky's most effective superintendents, many of whom also teach the modules.
During each module, participants are assessed through a combination of journal entries (also, for trainer feedback during the module) and content tests. Additionally, an authentic assessment activity consisting of a performance event, wherein the participant can demonstrate his or her ability to apply the knowledge and skills gained in the program to real world problems, is conducted at the conclusion of the training as a culminating event to the program. In preparation for and during this testing component, the participants are able to access appropriate personnel or other resources available to them in their district for use in addressing the issues presented in an authentic manner.
A two-person team generally conducts the training sessions. The team is composed of trained trainers and facilitators who are usually local district superintendents and sometimes university representatives or other experts in specialty areas.
The Superintendent Assessment Center is designed to identify strengths and areas for improvement in eleven leadership dimensions. During the assessment center, the superintendent participates in simulated situations of leadership in a non-profit organization that parallel school superintendent activities. They are observed by each of six trained assessors. At the conclusion of the assessment, the participant is provided confidential feedback in a final, integrated report. The report provides suggestions for developing individual growth plans required by statute. In addition, each new superintendent is assigned an experienced superintendent as a mentor for on-going support throughout the year.
New Superintendent Training and Assessment Program
2008-09 Calendar of Events
Superintendent/Board Relations and Support (Optional)
June 10-11, 2008
KASS Summer Conference (Lexington)
Leadership for School Law
July 15-18, 2008
KASA Summer Conference (Galt House, Louisville)
Leadership for School Finance and Management
August 18-21, 2008
Site TBD
Leadership for Learning
Dates TBD based on CATS Release
Fayette County BOE
New Superintendent Assessment Center*
November 3-4, 2008
Location TBD
New Superintendent Assessment Center*
January 5-6, 2009
Location TBD
New Superintendent Assessment Center*
February 2-3, 2009
Location TBD
New Superintendent Assessment Center (IF NECESSARY)*
March 2-3, 2009
Location TBD
New Superintendent Assessment Center (IF NECESSARY)*
April 6-7, 2009
Location TBD
* Six (6) superintendents are randomly assigned to each assessment center
ALL DATES AND LOCATIONS SUBJECT TO CHANGE