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Gwinnett County Public Schools

Aspiring Leader Program

The purpose of the Aspiring Leader Program (ALP) is to recruit, develop, and retain assistant principals who will achieve the mission and goals of Gwinnett County Public Schools. To be effective, an assistant principal must have the knowledge, skills, and talent that cannot be acquired in college courses alone. The program helps to bridge the gap between theory and practice for teachers aspiring to be assistant principals. Every attempt is made to tailor the curriculum and experiences to meet the specific needs of those accepted into the program and to align with the Gwinnett Leader Effectiveness Standards.

Teaching methods include case studies, role-playing activities, panel discussions, and collaborative adult learning. During the program, potential assistant principals participate in a residency program which includes clinical leadership experiences, and a school improvement Capstone Project.
 

The curriculum focuses on:

  • Instructional Leadership:  Collaboratively promote a shared vision and clear expectations for learning that leads to narrowing achievement gaps and increased student achievement.
  • Collaboration & Capacity Building: Supports systems and routines that facilitate and sustain a community of learners where teachers and leaders can reflect on their practice and learn from each other, resulting in improved student learning.
  • Communication & Meaningful Engagement: Anticipates and responds to resistance to reach mutually beneficial goals and differentiates communication approaches to authentically engage the community for continuous school improvement.
  • Equity & Cultural Responsiveness: Promotes and cultivates a learning environment that is inclusive, caring and supportive of the social, cultural and economic backgrounds of all members of the community.