NCSOE expands its school administrator trainings

05/25/2017 -

The North Coast School of Education (NCSOE) is expanding its efforts to prepare a new generation of school principals, directors, and superintendents to lead Sonoma County and northern California schools. This comes at a time when educational researchers are pointing to the beginnings of a school administrator shortage.

As with teachers, school administrators must hold a specialized credential in order to perform certain aspects of the job. Earning the administrative services credential is a two-part process. First, the candidate must earn a Preliminary Administrative Services Credential after meeting basic requirements set by the state Commission on Teacher Credentialing, through participation in an accredited program. The candidate receives a "clear credential" when all requirements, including participation in a 2-year Administrative Induction Program, have been completed.

In the fall of 2017, NCSOE will begin offering a Preliminary Administrative Services Credential (PASC) program that will enable potential administrators to complete the first part of the credentialing process. Enrollment is limited to 25 candidates during the first year of the program.

“Research indicates there are three things that have the most critical influence on the life of a child,” said Dr. Anna Moore, who directs administrative programs for NCSOE. “First, there is the parent/s and family unit, then there are the dedicated and tireless teachers, and then comes the inspiring leader. We’re proud to play a part in preparing the next generation of leaders to make a difference in children’s lives.”

NCSOE is already supporting over 100 administrators through the second phase of the administrative credential process by offering an Administrator Induction Program. This program enables educators to earn their clear administrative credential while working and leading in schools throughout Sonoma, Marin, and Mendocino counties. The first cohort of around 50 participated in the program’s culminating event and graduation, The Sharecase, held on Thursday, May 11, at 4:30. The graduation, held at SCOE, involved candidates discussing with one another the research projects they’ve undertaken in the local schools and districts where they work.