Timeline    |   Program Highlights   |  KELA Core Faculty   |   Program Cost


KELA Application

This seventeen (17) month-long program is highly-selective with only 30 applicants from across the commonwealth approved.  It is highly recommended that applications be submitted soon.  

To be eligible for KELA, applicants must: 

  1. Be a KASA member in good standing.
  2. Have a minimum of three years of school administration experience with a track-record of high-performance.

NOTE:  Applicants are not required to hold superintendent certification to participate in this program.

Application process will include:

  1. Registration and submission of a completed application due no later than 4:00 p.m. ET on August 13, 2021.  
    (Note: Once registration is processed, applicants will receive an email with instructions on next steps: completing application, obtaining superintendent approval, and references. Email will be sent within 48 hours from the time registration is received.)
  2. Documented superintendent and principal (if appropriate) approval for program participation and local implementation of activities designed to create, improve, or expand existing systems or processes.
  3. Three (3) electronically submitted professional reference surveys completed by individuals familiar with the candidate's ability and potential as an executive leader. These references must include:
    1. A direct supervisor
    2. A professional colleague
    3. A third reference of the applicant’s choosing.
  4. A signed professional commitment to faithfully attend in-person and virtual convenings of the cohort to ensure credibility of the experience.
  5. $250 deposit is due with registration for application. If selected, deposit will be applied to remaining balance. If not selected, deposit will be returned in full.
  6. Acceptance letters will be delivered by email no later than August 17, 2021. Print letters will follow shortly thereafter.

Steps to Apply:


  1. Register and pay the $250 application deposit.
  2. Once you complete the registration process you will receive an email that gives you next steps:
  • complete the online application
  • superintendent approval (a link will be provided to share with your superintendent)
  • reference form (a link will be provided to share with those you wish to use as references)