Program Overview

The Executive Leadership Series for Onboarding New Superintendents is Kentucky’s statewide induction program for first-year superintendents. This comprehensive onboarding process provides deeper knowledge, broader skill sets, and practical leadership tools aligned with the seven effectiveness standards for superintendents.

Program Authors & Sponsors

Authors: Rhonda K. Caldwell, CAE, Ed.D. & Ronald Anthony Strong, Ed.D.

Sponsors: Kentucky Association of School Administrators (KASA) in partnership with the Kentucky Department of Education (KDE).

Program Description

Designed as a just-in-time, standards-based induction model, this program equips new superintendents with immediate, personalized support. Through guidance from an Individualized Learning Plan (ILP) team, participants gain practical knowledge and strategies for their first year in leadership.

Program Purpose

1. Deliver state-required training under KRS 156.111, including:
   • Leadership best practices
   • School-based decision-making
   • Kentucky school law, finance & budgeting
   • Curriculum, assessment & instructional leadership
   • School improvement & community/board relations
   • Effective communication & ethical leadership
   • Executive coaching/mentoring for professional growth
2. Collect work products and assessments that demonstrate superintendent proficiency for KDE and local boards of education.
3. Support successful program completion within two years to maintain superintendent certification.

Program Design

Built by veteran superintendents, KASA staff, and university experts, the NxG program is grounded in continuous improvement and includes:

1. Diagnostic data to guide individualized superintendent training.
2. Personalized ILPs created by the superintendent, leadership coach, mentor, and board liaison.
3. Standards-based assessments, planning tools, and a Capstone of Learning presentation.
4. Flexible learning modules delivered live or online.
5. Comprehensive coaching and mentorship with clear growth objectives.