Assistant Principal Preparation Program (AP3)

Assistant Principals in Austin ISD must understand the dynamics and culture of not only their campuses, but the diversity, needs, and vision for the district as a whole. The Assistant Principal Preparation Program (AP3) prepares a select cohort of experienced Austin ISD educators to develop and hone their craft through the lens of the AISD Leadership Framework. The program provides cohort members the opportunity to gain aligned professional learning focused on knowledge, experience, and skills needed to be a successful assistant principal in Austin ISD. Learning opportunities are facilitated by the Talent Development Team.

Objectives

• Engage in learning opportunities that align with the Austin ISD Leadership Framework, AISD Equity Framework, and AISD Values;
• Gain skills needed to be a successful campus administrator as outlined by the AISD Leadership Framework; and
• To equip each participant with the knowledge and skills needed to obtain a leadership position of choice. 

Program Components

Professional learning experiences will take various forms, including, but not limited to the following:

Monthly Meetings (8:30-11:30 AM)

• These three-hour, face-to-face learning sessions are mandatory to maintain participation in the program. Each meeting will focus on core content that prepares aspiring assistant principals for future leadership positions. Guest instructors will often facilitate the learning.  Additionally, participants will engage in learning walks on campuses with opportunities for feedback and discussion.

Leadership Development

• The program provides a structured framework for participants to reflect on, develop, and refine their leadership abilities. Through a combination of workshops and personalized coaching sessions, they acquire essential leadership competencies such as effective communication, strategic planning, team building, and conflict resolution.

Actionable Leadership Projects

• Participants apply their learning in real-world contexts through leadership projects tailored to their professional goals and organizational needs. These projects serve as tangible manifestations of their growth and impact as emerging leaders, fostering innovation, collaboration, and positive change within their educational settings.

Coaching Sessions (one per semester)

• Cohort members will meet for one-on-one coaching sessions with Talent Development. Additional coaching is available as needed.
   

How to Apply for AP3

To be considered for the Assistant Principal Preparation Program, each applicant must first meet the established criteria to apply. Applicants who are currently on the Assistant Principal Highly Qualified list are eligible for automatic admission into the AISD Assistant Principal Preparation Program.
 

Cohort Membership Criteria

In order to be selected for AP3, each applicant must meet the following minimum: 

• Currently serving as a teacher, instructional coach, or non-teaching professional in Austin ISD;
• Currently hold an Administrative Certification or are scheduled to complete Master’s  Degree coursework and Principal Certification by May 31, 2025;
• Has completed at least three years of successful service as a teacher or non-teaching professional; and
• Must have a PPfT final rating of “Effective” or better from the school year preceding application submission.
   

Cohort Application Process

All aspiring AP3 members must complete the following to be considered to participate in the program.

• Complete the 2024- 2025 Assistant Principal Preparation Program (AP3) Application;
• Our Talent Development team will request one Recommendation Form submission from your current Principal or Central Office Supervisor; and 
• Participate in an interview facilitated by the Talent Development Team and other district officials.
   

Additional Information

• Previous P3 members are not eligible to apply.
• Applicant submissions are screened by leaders from the Office of Leadership Development and Support.
• P3 appointments are announced in early June for the upcoming school year.
   

Selection Process Dates

• March 22, 2024: Application Window Opens
• May 3, 2024: Application Window Closes
• Week of May 6, 2024: Recommendation Form Sent to Current Principal or Central Office Supervisor
• Week of May 13, 2024: Virtual Interviews
• Week of May 20, 2024: Notifications are Sent to 24-25 AP3 Cohort Members

Questions?

Contact: Jessica Lopez, jessica.lopez-grantham@austinisd.org, Coordinator of Talent Development
Contact: Juan Haney, juan.haney@austinisd.org, Coordinator of Talent Development