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Academic Programs

School District Leader (Online)

Non-Degree

  • Program Overview

    The School District Leader Advanced Certificate program provides Bank Street graduates who are prospective district leaders with the opportunity to participate in a unique certification course sequence focusing on effective district management strategies. Although New York State pathways to leader certifications have changed as of 2025, this program provides Bank Street alums comprehensive leadership preparation.

    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 well prepared  for the New York State School District Leader exams.. This program requires 5 credits and is offered fully online.

    Please note, due to recent NYSED changes, this program is no longer required to work at the district-level in New York State. Individuals who possess SBL certification can take the SDL exams and apply for the new Administrator Extension without having completed an SDL program. The Administrator Extension qualifies individuals to work in district positions up the level of positions that have “superintendent” in the title. Individuals seeking to work in superintendent-level positions must possess the Administrator Certification and have successfully completed 60 graduate credits to qualify for the Superintendents Extension.

    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 Bank Street master’s degree, as well as a School Building Leader (SBL) certification.  

    This program is offered fully online only. 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

    For Qualified Bank Street Leadership Alumni: View coursework for this 5-credit certification program.

  • 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

  • Certification

    *Federal regulation, 34 CFR 668.14(b)(32) requires all online educational programs leading to licensure, including all teacher and leader certification programs, only enroll students who plan to work in the state where their program leads to certification or in a state where there is reciprocity. Compliance with these regulations is essential for all educational institutions to continue to receive Federal financial assistance and to operate educational programs. Bank Street issues certification in New York State (NYS). If you are not a NYS resident, during the application process you will let us know if you plan to work in NYS or in one of the states where NYS has reciprocity upon completion of your graduate program. Whether or not you plan to work in NYS or a state with reciprocity, you must complete this attestation during the application process. If you have any questions about certification, please reach out to certification@bankstreet.edu.

    School District Leader Sequence (Non-Degree) curriculum meets the educational requirements for professional licensure or certification in following states: CT, IA, ME, MO, MT, NY

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 networking through Bank Street has definitely been a benefit. My career story has been bolstered by people wanting to make an investment in me
Amber Cartwright - Educational Leadership '09, 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
Meet our alumni
The connections and community that Bank Street provides have made a difference.
Shavon Frazier - Early Childhood Special Education/Early Childhood Leadership '17
Meet Shavon 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.

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