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October 8, 2025
In September, 37 rising stars in Texas educational leadership embarked on a journey of learning and support with The Holdsworth Center.
A cohort of 20 aspiring superintendents attended their first session of the Aspiring Superintendent Accelerator (ASA), a 15-month program designed to equip future superintendents with the skills, knowledge and experience to lead Texas districts with vision and purpose.
This first-of-its-kind program is designed to help leaders gain mastery of the skills and behaviors needed to be an exceptional superintendent from day one. Participants immediately put their learning into action through significant projects created in partnership with their superintendents.
The program hones critical leadership skills like communication, relationship management and decision-making – increasingly vital skills in today’s educational landscape. Participants apply these skills in real-world situations, receiving guidance and feedback from experienced coaches to refine their approach and reach mastery.
Having exceptional superintendents at the helm of all Texas districts is critical to improving outcomes for students in the face of great headwinds battering public education. Dr. Lindsay Whorton President / The Holdsworth Center
Having exceptional superintendents at the helm of all Texas districts is critical to improving outcomes for students in the face of great headwinds battering public education.
The job of superintendent is rewarding, but also difficult and complex. There are few opportunities to “practice” the role before taking the seat. Superintendents who are unprepared for the little-known realities of the role pose a higher risk of leaving before they can have a positive impact. Superintendent instability has negative impacts on district staff and students.
The 2025 Aspiring Superintendent Accelerator participants include an outstanding cohort of leaders from across Texas:
Later in September, a new group of 17 superintendents kicked off their journey in the Superintendent Leadership Program, an 18-month program designed to equip sitting superintendents with the skills, knowledge and support to lead Texas districts with vision and purpose.
Superintendents attend learning sessions with world-class leadership experts at Holdsworth’s Campus on Lake Austin and receive executive coaching from Holdsworth’s cadre of superintendents-in-residence. Holdsworth covers the cost of programming thanks to the generosity of its founder and other philanthropic supporters.
The superintendent role has always been challenging, but today’s complexities make it even more demanding. Texas has seen an uptick in superintendent retirements, and this program is designed to support leaders during these critical years, better positioning them to grow into highly effective, long-term leaders who are essential to promoting student success.
“Having exceptional superintendents at the helm of all Texas districts is critical to improving outcomes for students in the face of great headwinds battering public education,” Whorton said.
The 2025 Superintendent Leadership Program Cohort includes an outstanding group of leaders from across Texas:
Are you interested in learning more about our programs? Sign up and we’ll keep you updated on application windows, webinars and information sessions.