Dr. Effie H. Jones Leadership Institute

The Dr. Effie H. Jones Leadership Institute seeks to empower the next generation of visionary leaders in public education—equipping them with the skills, mindset, and cultural responsiveness needed to drive meaningful change and improve student outcomes in schools across the nation.
Through the lens and legacy of the transformative leader Dr. Effie H. Jones, participants will:
- Analyze the historical and cultural context of leadership in public education and connect that legacy to their own leadership identities.
- Reflect on personal values and leadership purpose, identifying how their lived experiences shape their vision and commitment to access and opportunity.
- Develop strategies for culturally responsive leadership, rooted in community uplift and systemic change.
- Establish authentic connections with institute peers, fostering a supportive professional network grounded in shared purpose and accountability.
Ultimately, participants will explore how to lead with purpose, uplift their communities, and initiate belonging-centered change within school systems.
This program is specifically designed for non-superintendent public school educators with significant leadership potential and a deep commitment to serving every child in their community.
This includes individuals currently serving as:
- Assistant Principals
- Principals
- Aspiring Leaders (e.g., teacher leaders, instructional coaches)
- District-Level Staff
All participants should demonstrate a strong understanding of and unwavering commitment to Dr. Effie H. Jones's values and principles.
Nominate a Colleague!
Do you have a colleague who would be an excellent candidate for this Institute? Tap them on the shoulder! Submit their name via our nomination form.
This institute blends intensive in-person sessions with ongoing virtual engagement.
Virtual Meetings
December 3, 2025: Leading with Legacy - Honoring Dr. Effie H. Jones and Defining Our “Whyâ€
Topic: The Call to Courage led by Superintendents Luvelle Brown and Mark Bedell
Courage is an essential leadership trait for educators today. Learn from two leading superintendents what it means to lead boldly even in the face of turmoil.
January 14, 2026: Courageous Leadership in Contested Spaces
Topic: All Politics Are Local—Until They Aren’t
Understand how national political trends, including attacks on DEI and inclusive curricula, are shaping local education policy and practice. Learn how to lead with equity and navigate political minefields while protecting students, staff, and community trust.
March 11, 2026: Wellness as a Leadership Imperative
Topic: Career Advancement and Sustainability in School Leadership
Examine how to chart a career path that reflects your values and honors your wellness. Learn to set boundaries, manage burnout, and make strategic career decisions while navigating systemic barriers in leadership advancement.
April 8, 2026: Capstone Review and Support
May 13, 2026: Radical Collaboration and Collective Power
Topic: Media Relations and Messaging: Telling Your School’s Story with Purpose led by Lesley Bruinton, APR
Learn how to proactively manage narratives in local and national media. Gain tools to elevate student and school success stories, respond effectively to criticism, and build public will for equity-focused education initiatives.
May 13, 2026: Radical Collaboration and Collective Power
Topic: Media Relations and Messaging: Telling Your School’s Story with Purpose led by Lesley Bruinton, APR
Learn how to proactively manage narratives in local and national media. Gain tools to elevate student and school success stories, respond effectively to criticism, and build public will for equity-focused education initiatives.
June 10 and July 8, 2026: Legacy and Liberation — Capstone Showcase
Topic: Storytelling for Impact: Sharing Your Leadership Narrative
Build a compelling personal and professional leadership story that communicates your vision, values, and impact. Learn how to use your story as a strategic tool for advocacy, fundraising, coalition-building, and inspiring others.
Required In-Person Sessions
- February 12-14, 2026: Nashville, Tenn.
Note: this session will take place during . Participants in the Institute will receive a full complimentary registration to NCE (travel and accommodations not included). Instructions for how to register for NCE will be shared after you register for the Institute. - August 2026: Alexandria, Va. - Date TBD
Optional In-Person Summits:
As a perk of participation, institute participants have the option to attend the following Âܲ·AVÊÓÆµSummits at a discounted rate:
- September 26, 2025: Bold Urban Leadership Summit in Washington, D.C. | Learn More
Program Leads
Speakers
Partner
Details
December 3, 2025 to August 1, 2026
$3,200
Member Price
$3,500
Non-Member Price
Not a member? Join today.
Contacts
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Jessica Gordon
Program Manager, Leadership Network
AASA, Âܲ·AVÊÓÆµ
703-875-0704
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M. Ann Levett
Senior Vice President, Leadership Network
AASA, Âܲ·AVÊÓÆµ
703-875-0765