Academic Programs

School District Leader (Online)

Non-Degree

  • Program Overview

    The School District Leader Advanced Certificate program provides prospective district leaders with the opportunity to participate in a unique certification course sequence focusing on effective district management strategies.

    Through close examination of a district and using case studies, you will obtain an in-depth understanding of how districts are organized; the roles of the superintendent and the school board; different reform efforts; and how to meet the needs of special populations.

    You will develop leadership skills to prepare you for various supervisory roles at the district level with an emphasis on strengthening teaching and learning for all students.

    When you complete the non-degree course sequence, you will be eligible for New York State certification as a School District Leader. This program requires either 5 credits (for Bank Street students or graduates only) or 11 credits to complete. This program is offered fully online.

    Learn more about the online program.

     

    Leadership student in class

  • Admissions Requirements

    In addition to the main admissions criteria, there are additional requirements needed to apply for this program:

    • Applicants must have a master’s degree from an accredited institution of higher education and have 60 credits of graduate coursework in order to be eligible for the SDL license
    • Applicants must currently be working in an appropriate school or district site
    • Additionally, at least three years of head teaching or pupil personnel experience is required.

    This program is offered fully online only. You will engage in the use of technology. You will be asked to use a range of technological tools. You must have a dedicated computer or tablet and stable Internet access. You will be expected to become familiar with the online tools, reach out to ask for support as you navigate the technology, and strengthen your presence and skill set in the online environment.

  • Coursework

  • Supervised Fieldwork/Advisement

    For those in the 11-credit sequence, you will engage in a field placement negotiated among yourself, your district office, and your advisor. You will be supervised onsite by your internship mentor and your advisor. You will develop and implement a work plan on a particular issue relevant to the placement.

  • Career Opportunities

    Completing this program will provide you with a range of career opportunities:

    • Supervisory roles in school districts, e.g., superintendent, deputy/assistant superintendent, and other district positions including curriculum supervisor.
    • Most districts, BOCES, central offices have positions that require SDL certification.
    • Leadership roles in county, state, or national educational organizations. SDL certification may strengthen your candidacy for a variety of roles in organizations dedicated to supporting, studying, or otherwise improving educational systems.
  • Faculty

Amber Cartwright, Bank Street Graduate School of Education alum, Early Childhood Leadership
Meet our alumni
I feel a certain esteem saying that I’ve graduated from Bank Street. And when I meet others who have graduated from Bank Street, we tend to fall into conversation because there’s a shared educational philosophy.
Amber Cartwright - Educational Leadership for Change '06, SBL and SDL '20
Meet Amber Meet Our Alumni
Amber Cartwright, Bank Street Graduate School of Education alum, Early Childhood Leadership
Meet our alumni
I feel a certain esteem saying that I’ve graduated from Bank Street. And when I meet others who have graduated from Bank Street, we tend to fall into conversation because there’s a shared educational philosophy.
Amber Cartwright - Educational Leadership for Change '06, SBL and SDL '20
Meet Amber Meet Our Alumni
Bank Street alumna, Jo Ann Secor
Meet our alumni
I wanted to learn more about diverse learning styles, early learning, and pedagogy. Bank Street’s program was recommended for working professionals asking questions like, ‘How can we create meaningful experiences for students? And how can we create personal entry points?'
Jo Ann Secor - Leadership in Museum Education '83
Meet Jo Ann Meet Our Alumni

Alumni Voices

Alum Kima Johnson knew that Bank Street was the right place for her to be. Hear more about her experience with coursework, supervision, and more.