Aspiring Principal Program

Program Details

A yearlong program offering world-class preparation to leaders who seek to become a principal in the Permian Basin region of Texas and New Mexico in the next 1-3 years.

Applications due January 29, 2027

What People Are Saying

“Holdsworth gave me insight I’ve never had and challenged me to be the leader I knew that I could be.” – Welton Blaylock, Ector County ISD

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Program Overview

01 Aspiring principals gain hands-on experience by visiting schools across Texas led by excellent principals, then apply their learning to principal-level projects on their home campus.

02 Each leader works with a dedicated coach who makes in-person visits and provides guidance and feedback to support improved performance.

03 Learning sessions include simulations of real-world scenarios and opportunities for individual and group reflection.

“I wasn’t adding to my
toolbox. I was
changing myself.”

The first graduates of the Aspiring Principal Program describe what the year changed for them — the coaching, the rotations, the stretch project and the confidence to step into the seat. Two minutes, in their own words.

Watch Video Read Kimber Anderson’s story in her own words

Kimber Anderson, principal of Lee Freshman High School in Midland ISD, on the Campus on Lake Austin

Holdsworth Firsthand

Aspiring principals say the program gave them a rare view of the principal’s job through shadowing high-performing principals and doing real, principal-level work.

It’s really tailored to us. I got to set my own goals for what I needed on my campus and what I needed personally to grow as a leader.

Yvonne Asakawa

Ector County ISD

So many people in leadership are always looking to be the problem solver and make decisions on the fly. In Holdsworth coaching sessions, you get to pause and really reflect on the root cause.

Alex Lopez

Hobbs Municipal Schools

This program gave me a real picture of what the job is like — not just the rose-colored view of what it could be like, but the reality of it.

Kimber Anderson

Midland ISD

Program FAQs

Who is eligible for this program?

Any public school educator who seeks to become a principal in the Permian Basin region of Texas and New Mexico in the next 1-3 years.

How long is the program?

One year (July 2027 – July 2028). View full schedule here.

What does the program cover?

Four main areas:

1. Vision Setting
2. Systems Thinking
3. Planning, Instructional Leadership
4. Personal Leadership

What does it cost?

Thanks to the generosity of donors, the program is free of charge.

What’s the time commitment?

6 learning sessions total. 3 2-day rotations across Texas; 1 hour bi-weekly coaching sessions (virtual).

What’s the experience like?

Private overnight rooms, all meals included, full days of learning (typically 9am start), with time to connect, reflect, or enjoy campus/hotel amenities.

What coaching and support are provided?

All Aspiring Principals receive bi-weekly coaching.

Who applies and when?

Any aspiring principal in the Permian Basin can apply. Applications for the next cohort are open now through January 29, 2027.

Our application prep resource has a checklist of everything you need to apply. When you’re ready, start your application.

Not ready yet? Express interest in a future cohort.

Interested in learning more?

Are you interested in learning more about our programs? Sign up and we’ll keep you updated on application windows, webinars and information sessions.