MASA begins Superintendent Helpline Pilot Program
Launch the media gallery 1 playerLast June, the Missouri Association of School Administrators (MASA) Executive Committee approved three new support programs for superintendents:
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the Emerging Superintendent Coaching Program for superintendents in years two and three of their superintendent career,
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the Collaborative Cohort Program for superintendents with four or more years of experience,
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and the Superintendent Helpline.
The Emerging Superintendent Coaching Program and the Collaborative Cohort Program established through a partnership with the Department of Elementary and Secondary Education (DESE) began this school year and currently serves nearly 140 superintendents throughout the state.
MASA has appointed John Jungmann to coordinate the three programs. John, along with Carol Embree, are leading the efforts for the Superintendent Helpline. I am pleased to inform you that the Superintendent Helpline, available to all superintendents in the state of Missouri to provide immediate and regular support, has now been established and will be piloted from January 10 - May 31.
The Superintendent Helpline will be operated by MASA, who will also engage with members of other professional organizations based on the needs of MASA members. Through survey results, superintendents have identified board relations, personal wellness, budget and finance, and public relations to be the primary support areas desired. Superintendents needing support in these areas will call or text 573-415-6996 and leave a message with the following information: Caller Name, Caller Cell Phone, School District, and the Topic/Question.
Helpline calls or text messages received between 7:00 a.m. - 8:00 p.m. will be responded to within two hours. Any additional information needed will be acquired through a follow-up call with the superintendent. The call or text will be assigned to an experienced professional based on the identified topic or question. The helpline procedure may be accessed at this link.
This program is being provided at no cost to the superintendent or district. This pilot will inform the design and future modifications to the Superintendent Helpline project. We hope you will take advantage of this new resource as you continue to serve the students of Missouri.
MASA remains committed to providing additional supports in growing the impact school leaders have on student success while responding to the COVID-19 crisis and increasing both job satisfaction and retention in the role of the school superintendent.