Superintendent Academy
The Thompson Executive Leadership Institute (TELI) Superintendent Academy is a nationally known advanced leadership development program for superintendents in Texas and surrounding states. Our goal is to assist successful superintendents in achieving even higher levels of discipline and growth.
To apply, or to nominate someone, to Superintendent Academy XXXIII please review the information below, i.e. the academy description, the calendar and its attendance guidelines, and the membership qualifications and review their contents.
After reviewing the information above, if you believe you meet all the entry requirements listed below, we encourage you to click the BEGIN APPLICATION link and complete the application process.
We look forward to seeing your application.
Testimonials
“Participating in the Thompson Executive Leadership Institute and the Superintendent Academy has been a transformative experience in my development as a school leader. The program combined research-based best practices, real-world case studies, and mentorship from Dr. Bob Thompson and Dr. Greg Smith. Through collaborative learning and reflection, I gained a deeper understanding of district leadership, governance, and ethical decision-making. The strong network of peers and mentors in the program has been a continuous source of support and professional growth. I left with enhanced skills, renewed purpose, and a clear vision for driving transformational change in my district.”
Hector Dominguez, Superintendent, Runge ISD
“Attending the Thompson Executive Leadership Institute’s Superintendent Academy Cohort XXXII was a transformative experience that provided world-class training on essential topics for superintendents. The program offered valuable insights, strategies, and ample opportunities to network with peers, building lasting relationships that continue to offer support and inspiration. Over the course of the year, I made deep connections with fellow superintendents, explored innovative solutions to challenges, and gained new perspectives that have enhanced my leadership. I highly recommend this academy to any superintendent-nominee, as the knowledge, mentorship, and collaboration it offers are unparalleled. This experience has strengthened my ability to serve my district effectively and has contributed significantly to my personal and professional growth.”
Megan Pape, Superintendent, Snook ISD
“The Superintendent’s Academy was a valuable experience that equipped me with practical tools to enhance my effectiveness as a superintendent. Collaborating with fellow superintendents and engaging in discussions broadened my perspective, while site visits to Puerto Rico provided insights into public education outside of Texas. The academy’s focus on real-world challenges, exemplar documents, and policy development strengthened my leadership and decision-making abilities. Participating in the Visioning Conference with school board members fostered meaningful conversations about our strategic plan. This experience has deepened my commitment to improving student outcomes and leading my district effectively.”
Dr. Joshua Garcia, Superintendent, Kaufman ISD
What We Offer
Upon completion of the Academy, Superintendents will gain the following:
Think Tank
a “think tank” atmosphere where the discussions are open and challenging
Innovation
Professional Development
Network
a new network of school superintendents with a level of trust and confidentiality
Strategies
new strategies for allocating time for structured growth activities
32 Years
of Sought After Leadership Development
Scholarship
Superintendents accepted into the Academy will receive a scholarship to cover all education-related expenses including transportation and hotel costs for a field trip to visit several schools in Puerto Rico.
Community
Through the Academy, you will develop a new network of school superintendents with a level of trust and confidentiality like none you have experienced before.
Begin Your Journey
Make sure you or your potential nominee is an eligible candidate before completing the nomination application.
Admission is open to all superintendents who have not attended the academy. To be eligible for consideration by the Admissions Committee, a nominee must:
- be employed and currently serving as a superintendent of schools
- have at least two years of experience as a school superintendent
- be seen as a leader by his/her colleagues
- have demonstrated that he/she is a student of his/her profession
- have the support of his/her board
Review the institute dates to ensure that you can attend scheduled meetings and events.
Attendance at all sessions is critical to your success in the Academy. Superintendents who have schedule conflicts that require them to miss either of the first two sessions, the Visioning Conference, or more than one session during the year are asked to decline nomination until their schedules allow uninterrupted attendance.
Complete the nomination application.
Nominations are accepted until the Committee completes its work and all scholarships are awarded. Since admission is competitive and limited, many excellent superintendents have been nominated in the past and not yet been selected for no other reason than lack of space in the Academy. A special effort is made to provide maximum diversity of school size, geographic location, ethnicity and gender.