School District Leader (Online)
Non-Degree
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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.
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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.
- Applicant must demonstrate three years of paid, full-time work experience as a classroom teacher (must be as a head teacher or lead teacher, not as an assistant or associate teacher) or as a pupil personnel professional in an appropriate school site (early childhood through adolescent settings). They will also need to be employed in an appropriate role and setting throughout the duration of the program. Pupil personnel positions are (as defined by New York State):
- School Attendance Teacher
- School Counselor
- School Dental Hygiene Teacher
- School Nurse-Teacher
- School Psychologist
- School Social Worker
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.
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Coursework
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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.
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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.
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Faculty
Abbe FuttermanProgram Director, Progressive Leadershipafutterman@bankstreet.edu 212-875-4404
Alice GottliebCourse Instructoragottlieb@bankstreet.edu
Nancy MannSupervised Fieldwork Advisornmann@bankstreet.edu
Brian MonahanCourse Instructorbmonahan@bankstreet.edu
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.