The Missouri Association of School Administrators (MASA) is proud to continue its commitment to empowering women across the state’s public education system through the 2025-26 Women in Leadership Cohort. This yearlong program is specifically designed for women in central office leadership roles—from superintendents to assistant superintendents and other key district leaders.
A Program That Builds Leadership and Community
The Women in Leadership Program isn’t just about professional development—it’s about creating a strong, supportive network for women navigating leadership in K–12 education. With a focus on building community, amplifying women’s voices, and providing real-world tools and strategies, the program aims to empower participants to lead with purpose and confidence.
Whether you’re already in a central office role or preparing to step into one, this cohort offers a powerful platform for growth, connection, and collaboration.
What Participants Can Expect
The 2025–26 cohort will bring together women leaders from across Missouri for a series of four in-person sessions, complemented by ongoing virtual engagement. Each session is carefully crafted to support professional growth, personal reflection, and systems thinking—equipping participants with the tools needed to drive meaningful and sustainable change.
All in-person sessions will be held at the Gary D. Sharpe Education Center in Jefferson City, MO, running from 8:30 a.m. to 3:30 p.m., and include lunch.
2025–26 Session Dates & Focus Areas:
- September 23, 2025 – Creating the Culture for Aligned Impact
Learn to lead using the Nine Principles®, conduct leader rounding, and build a school culture that strengthens recruitment and retention. - December 8, 2025 – Aligning the System for Real Impact
Dive into strategic planning frameworks, track progress through meaningful metrics, and apply PDSA cycles to support continuous improvement. - March 23, 2026 – Aligning Feedback & Team Support for Real Impact
Strengthen team performance with role-specific onboarding, growth-focused conversations, and practical succession planning strategies. - June 9, 2026 – Reflect. Reset. Reconnect.
End the year with a focus on leading high-performing teams, running effective meetings, leadership storytelling, and improving board-superintendent relationships.
Affordable, Accessible, and Actionable
For just $300, participants gain access to:
- Four full-day in-person learning sessions
- Ongoing virtual support and collaboration
- Lunch during each in-person event
- Practical leadership tools ready to use in real district settings
This is a valuable investment for school systems looking to strengthen leadership capacity and build a future-ready administrative team.
Why Join the Women in Leadership Cohort?
The challenges and responsibilities of central office leadership can often feel isolating—especially for women in male-dominated spaces. MASA’s Women in Leadership Program is designed to change that. By connecting women leaders across Missouri, this initiative ensures no leader has to walk the journey alone.
Participants leave the program with:
- A trusted network of peers
- Enhanced leadership skills
- Systems thinking tools
- Renewed energy and confidence to lead
FAQs
Who can join the Women in Leadership Cohort?
The program is open to women in Missouri who serve as superintendents, assistant superintendents, or hold other central office leadership roles in K–12 public education.
Where are the in-person sessions held?
All sessions will be hosted at the Gary D. Sharpe Education Center in Jefferson City, Missouri.
What is the cost of the program?
Registration is $300, which includes four in-person learning sessions, lunch, and access to virtual support throughout the year.
What topics are covered during the program?
Key topics include building school culture, strategic alignment, team development, leadership storytelling, succession planning, and board-superintendent relations.
Is virtual support included in the program?
Yes, participants will benefit from ongoing virtual touchpoints and collaboration opportunities in addition to the in-person sessions.
