Ensuring high academic achievement for every student
by attracting and preparing outstanding leaders and supporting the schools they lead, at scale.

Become a New Leader

Selection Criteria

Evidence-based selection and training that develops effective school-level leadership and management results in dramatic gains in student achievement. The following selection criteria summarize the characteristics shared by all New Leaders and are the basis for all admissions decisions. We strongly encourage you to keep them in mind as you complete the application process.

Beliefs and Orientation

Belief and Urgency that All Students will Excel Academically

Demonstrate the belief that every student, regardless of background, can excel academically
Demonstrate a sense of urgency to achieve dramatic gains in student learning and close the achievement gap
Hold self and other adults accountable for ensuring high academic achievement for every student

Results Orientation

Have a track record of achieving goals and results
Demonstrate and maintain a focus on goals and results
Demonstrate resourcefulness to achieve goals and results
Demonstrate willingness and ability to adjust strategies and practices in order to reach goals

Personal Responsibility and Relentless Drive

Hold self personally accountable for outcomes and results
Demonstrate relentless drive and determination to achieve outcomes and results
Exhibit willingness to engage in difficult conversations and make hard decisions
Exhibit resilience to overcome setbacks and remain constructive despite resistance or failure
Demonstrate integrity by acting in a manner that reflects stated values and beliefs
Demonstrate a commitment to urban school leadership and management

Teaching and Learning

Knowledge of Teaching and Learning

Demonstrate ability to drive dramatic improvements in academic achievement for all students
Provide evidence of linking daily, unit, and year-long plans to desired student learning outcomes
Understand and use a variety of instructional strategies to meet students' diverse learning needs
Articulate student learning outcomes as a key driver of instructional practice
Assess student learning and use data to guide and modify instruction
Provide clear feedback to students and guide students in assessing their own learning
Demonstrate the ability to distinguish among poor, mediocre, solid, and outstanding teaching

Strategic Management

Problem Solving

Identify, analyze, and prioritize complex problems and key issues
Analyze and diagnose complex issues
Develop a strategic plan with concrete outcomes
Develop effective solutions
Demonstrate ability to evaluate results
Demonstrate ability to make data-driven decisions

Project Management to Deliver Results

Articulate a clear vision and goals
Prioritize and organize strategies effectively to reach goals
Multi-task and balance detailed steps with the big picture to ensure successful project completion
Delegate decision-making and authority in an effective manner

Team Building

Mobilize adults to take action toward common goals
Develop clear direction and shared purpose that guides and unifies the team
Read group dynamics accurately and maximize individual strengths
Engage and empower others to take responsibility to achieve results
Make clear decisions while considering diverse perspectives to reach the best solutions

Personal Qualities

Communication and Listening

Clearly articulate point of view, ideas, and rationale
Possess written and verbal skills to communicate in a clear and concise manner that will be understood by intended audiences
Demonstrate poise, confidence, and professionalism in diverse situations
Actively listen to and engage with others

Interpersonal Skills

Successfully build relationships
Value different perspectives and treat every person with respect
Relate to adults and students with empathy and understanding
Diffuse anger and find common ground to move people toward solutions
Exhibit confidence and competence, including when under pressure

Self-Awareness and Commitment to Ongoing Learning

Accurately identify technical and interpersonal strengths and areas for development
Reflect on experiences to grow and develop
Seek feedback and take action to develop personally and professionally
Demonstrate humility and willingness to continually improve
Demonstrate awareness of impact on and perception by others
Commitment to the growth and development of other adults

Return to Top

Continue | City Requirements