I could not imagine walking into and being effective in the superintendency without this learning.”
Dr. Stephaine Camarillo
Lockhart ISD
Aspiring Superintendent Leadership Program
Texas public education faces unprecedented challenges and opportunities, underscoring the need for strong leadership. Our 15-month Aspiring Superintendent Leadership Program (ASLP) equips future superintendents with the skills, knowledge and experience to lead their districts with vision and purpose. This investment strengthens school districts and the broader communities they support.
“I have a window into the superintendency a lot of people in my role aren't able to have. My skills and confidence are growing immeasurably.”
Dr. Janine Fields
Mesquite ISD
Preparing aspiring superintendents for success
With guidance from their Sponsor Superintendent and Holdsworth’s Superintendents-in-Residence, participants tackle superintendent-level projects in their districts, gain practical experience and develop skills in the most challenging aspects of leading a school district. Aspiring superintendents also receive expert coaching, mentorship and feedback tailored to the demands of the superintendency.
Program curriculum focuses on essential skills for success in the superintendency:
- Managing the significant increase in visibility and public scrutiny
- Mobilizing and deploying a senior team
- Working with the board
- Navigating community politics and ideological conflict
- Communicating with diverse stakeholders
- Leading with long-term vision and strategy
The program builds confidence to tackle the most challenging aspects of the superintendency.
“Each day, I'm growing more and more. By the time I'm done with this program, I will be ready.”
Ida Perales
Garland ISD
Nominate an aspiring superintendent
The Aspiring Superintendent Leadership Program is designed for cabinet-level district leaders who:
- Report directly to the superintendent (e.g., Chief Academic Officer, Deputy Superintendent, Chief of Schools).
- Have a strong track record of performance in their current role.
- Will hold superintendent certification by September 2025.
- Aspire to become a superintendent within 2–4 years.
Superintendents may nominate at most one high-potential leader from their team. Nominees must work in a Texas public school district with more than 5,000 students. Use this resource to help guide the nomination process.
Key dates:
- Nomination Period: January 25, 2025 – March 28, 2025
- Program Start Date: September 2, 2025 | View all session dates
Frequently Asked Questions
Who is the Aspiring Superintendent Leadership Program designed for?
This program is designed for cabinet-level district leaders (those reporting to the superintendent) who are preparing to step into a superintendent role within the next 2-4 years.
Can I nominate myself for the program?
Nominations must be submitted by a current superintendent of a K-12 public ISD that serves at least 5,000 students. We encourage interested candidates to discuss the opportunity with their superintendent.
How does the application process work?
The process begins with a nomination form submitted by the superintendent. Nominees will then be invited to complete a detailed application and participate in an interview with the selection committee.
What is the schedule for the program?
The program begins in September of 2025. Click here for the key dates and session schedule.
Where will program sessions take place?
Learning sessions will be held at The Holdsworth Center’s Campus on Lake Austin, a world-class setting for renewal, reflection and development. A distinguishing feature of this program is the structured learning that takes place through on-the-job opportunities in the district throughout the duration of the programs.
What is the commitment of the Sponsor Superintendent?
As a Sponsor Superintendent, your support is essential to the ASLP experience. Your role includes:
- Supporting aspiring superintendents in taking on leadership projects aligned with the superintendent role. Sponsor Superintendents delegate new work to the aspiring superintendent that allow them to practice superintendent-level skills—while providing support to ensure success.
- Engaging regularly with Holdsworth coaches and staff to discuss progress, offer insights, and assess candidate readiness.
- Attending key learning sessions at the Campus on Lake Austin.
I have additional questions. Who can I contact?
Please reach out to Tiffany O’Neill at toneill@holdsworthcenter.org for any questions or further information.