VASSP and VFEL supported the recommendation of the Chair of the subcommittee,
Senator Barbara Favola (pictured at left), which included a request for funding for universities to provide training programs to current principals. VASSP and VFEL applauded this recommendation; however, we thought it was important that professional associations and other training organizations also be included in the recommendation. Dr. Charles "Mike" Harris, III - a former division superintendent in Sussex and current VFEL faculty member - was present at the meeting to advocate that funds be available to continue the support of the
National Institute of School Leadership's (NISL) Executive Development Program (EDP) in Virginia schools. Dr. Harris is a certified NISL EDP facilitator. NISL EDP is delivered in the Commonwealth by seven VFEL faculty members
– all of whom are certified NISL EDP facilitators.
In preparation for the subcommittee meeting, VASSP sent Senator Favola a letter and supporting documents emphasizing the need for membership associations and other training organizations to provide professional development to principals and assistant principals. Professional development for school leaders should increase knowledge and skills, provide opportunities for practice and be job-embedded. Who better to provide such training than professional associations? Professional education associations are on the front line every day. Association leaders understand what needs to happen to help with student learning. Traditionally, associations have offered continuing education credits or partnered with colleges and universities to offer graduate credit.
It is the belief of the VASSP and VFEL boards that principal leadership programs, such as NISL EDP, are much needed and should be delivered to all principals throughout the Commonwealth. NISL EDP is by far the leading rigorous professional development program for school leaders in the country. Over 12,000 school leaders have benefited from the program, and 10 state departments of education have already chosen NISL as a key strategy for strengthening their school leadership. For more information about the VASSP and VFEL support of NISL EDP,
click here. To view the
Summary Report on National Institute for School Leadership (NISL) Executive Development Program and Virginia’s Principal of Distinction (Level II) Administration and Supervision Endorsement Presented to Virginia Board of Education by Virginia Foundation for Educational Leadership
,
click here.
Following the discussion by subcommittee members, the Subcommittee on School Leadership and Student Outcomes voted unanimously to recommend to the full joint committee a proposal to "request an appropriation that enables schools to enter into partnerships with universities, associations, and other training organizations sanctioned by the Department of Education for the delivery of tailored leadership training and long-term coaching services."
As we receive updates on this important issue, we will provide them to you.
Sincerely,
