Aspiring Superintendents Program

KELA APP Schedule

2026-27 Schedule Overview

 

September 17

Are You Ready for the Role?

  • Time: 9 a.m. – 3 p.m. ET
  • This session is designed to evaluate readiness for the role of Superintendent. The session is built around information expectations of the role, self-reflection, and the Imposture Syndrome. Participants will leave with an action plan for moving forward in preparation for the role.
Troy Hutchings

November 12

Beware of the Unintentional Pitfalls

  • Time: 9 a.m. – 3 p.m. ET
  • Leader: Dr. Troy Hutchings
  • Good intentions without solid policies can lead to disastrous outcomes for a superintendent. This session focuses upon ethical issues, including grooming, of which every superintendent should be aware. Dr. Troy Hutchings shares not only gray areas that should be avoided, but also ways to navigate them before they arise. 

January 7-8

Becoming the Best Leader of Leaders!

  • Time: 9 a.m. - 3 p.m. ET
  • Leaders: Dr. Rhonda Caldwell, KASA
  • What does effective leadership look like in the superintendent’s seat—and how do you build it before you get there? Grounded in the research of James Kouzes and Barry Posner and their framework, The Leadership Challenge, this session moves beyond theory to focus on the real work of leading school systems.
  • Participants will explore the Five Practices of Exemplary Leadership through the lens of today’s challenges—board relations, community trust, staff culture, and high-stakes decision-making. Through case-based scenarios, reflection, and practical application, aspiring superintendents will examine how leadership behaviors shape credibility, influence, and results.
  • Designed to be immediately relevant, this session emphasizes leadership as a set of learnable, observable actions. Attendees will leave with a clearer understanding of how to translate research into practice—strengthening their ability to lead with clarity, build trust, and drive meaningful outcomes across their districts.

March 4

Ready, Set, Go!

  • Time: 9 a.m. – 3 p.m. ET
  • Leaders:Dr. Sheri Satterly, Frankfort Ind.; Dr. Robin Cochran, Washington Co.; Dr. Michael Melton, Bath Co.; Dr. Thom Cochran, Johnson Co.; Mr. John Siler, Whitley Co.; Dr. Jan Lantz, KASA
  • This session is designed for the participant to hear firsthand advice from current and former superintendents. There will be a dedicated time for Q and A. Nothing is off the table for discussion! This is a real conversation about real things that are part of the job. During this session, participants will also have the opportunity to design a cover letter, hear information about preparing the application, and tips for interviewing before a board of education