Graduate School of Education

Academic Programs Overview | Degree Programs | Course Descriptions
Academic Calendar | Schedule of Classes | Graduate School Catalogue


School District Leadership (nondegree) 

Carol Choye, Director: 212-875-4638

11 credits, completed in five weekend sessions
Please note that candidates who are currently enrolled in a qualifying Bank Street leadership program may be recommended for SDL certification after completing a five-credit SDL sequence. This option is also available to graduates of a qualifying Bank Street leadership program who apply for this option within eight years of graduation. For further information, see the page devoted to your program.

The Program
The School District Leadership nondegree program prepares candidates to be strong, responsive instructional leaders in a district of regional context. It addresses such issues as developing a district vision; analyzing relationships among key constituencies; leading district-wide reform efforts; understanding accountability from a district perspective; and making sound decisions in such spheres as instructional policy, planning, fiscal and human resources, facilities, legal and equity issues, and external relationships. Course work and field experiences move through this wide range of topics with the needs of diverse students, families, and communities as a steady north star.

The program prepares candidates for a range of positions, including superintendent, assistant superintendent, staff developer, curriculum coordinator, early childhood coordinator, and coordinator of services for speical populations (such as children in special education or dual language learners).

The program requires five credits of course work and six credits of supervised fieldwork. Candidates who need additional course work to reach the 60 graduate credits required for SDL certification may take, in addition, electives that do not duplicate prior course work.

This program leads to School District Leader (SDL) certification, but does not lead to a master's degree. It is intended primarily for those who already have completed a master's or doctorate in educational leadership at an accredited graduate institution and hold certificates as school building leaders (SAS or SBL).

Schedule
The program has a weekend format, allowing candidates to complete the course work and participate in conference groups during intensive sesions at Bank Street, and undertake the required supervised fieldwork in the weeks or months between these sessions. Candidates who live outside the NYC metropolitan area may find this schedule especially convenient.

Certification
The program leads to New York State School District Leader certification. To be eligible for certification, candidates must have successfully completed 60 credits at the graduate level and three years of classroom teaching service and/or pupil personnel service and/or educational leadership service in public or nonpublic N-12 schools. They must also pass the corresponding state assessment for School District Leader certification.

Supervised Fieldwork/Advisement
During one academic year, candidates practice leadership in their work settings or in supervised district placements, with considerable support from both their Bank Street advisor and their site supervisor. Some field activities are also integrated into the program course work. During supervised fieldwork/advisement, students work closely with their advisor and peers in integrating theory and practice. 

Admissions Requirements
Applicants typically have a master's degree in educational leadership and have previously qualified for SAS or SBL certification.

For further information, including course requirements, download the printable flyer.

More Educational Leadership Programs: