Leadership Academy/CAGS
blending theory and practice
The MCLA Leadership Academy is a dynamic cohort program tailored for working professionals
pursuing a role in educational leadership. Through a unique blend of academic rigor
and practical skill-building, participants engage in a 14-day summer residency, two
weekend residencies, asynchronous courses, and a 500-hour internship. Led by esteemed
educators and practitioners, the Leadership Academy offers a comprehensive curriculum
covering social, political, and academic theories in public education. With a focus
on fostering anti-racist, equitable, and effective learning environments, participants
take a deep dive into diverse activities including writing, discussions, group projects,
fieldwork, presentations, and more.
Since its inception in 1997, more than 2,500 leaders have honed their skills, gained
administrative credentials, and deepened their commitment to equity and justice thanks
to the Leadership Academy. Approved by the Massachusetts Department of Elementary
and Secondary Education, the Leadership Academy embodies transformative leadership,
integrating anti-racist competencies throughout its coursework and field experiences.
Join us to ignite your professional journey and make a lasting impact in education.
Program details:
- Schedule: 12-month program that begins in July 2026, with a required six-week pre-practicum starting in May 2026
- Important Dates: a two-week summer residency and two weekend residencies
- Course Descriptions: in-person and online, asynchronous courses and a 500-hour internship
- Estimated Costs: affordable, public college tuition/fee rates
- A four-day Leadership Conference culminating event
- College supervisors support students at internship sites
- Program approved for principal/assistant principal and superintendent/assistant superintendent licensure
- Eligible for New York certification as School Building Leader (SBL) and School District Leader (SDL)
- Optional 9-credit research sequence for CAGS (Certificate of Advanced Graduate Study)
completion in Education Administration
Mt. Greylock July Residency July 2025
Attend an Info Session
Info sessions provide potential students with the opportunity to meet with faculty, staff and alumni to learn more about the program.
Oct. 14, 2025 – 7 p.m.
Oct. 15, 2025 – 4:30 p.m.
Nov. 20, 2025 – 7 p.m.
Dec. 9, 2025 – 4:30 p.m.
Dec. 10, 2025 – 7 p.m.
Jan. 12, 2026 – 7 p.m.
Feb. 12, 2026 – 4:30 p.m.
March 14, 2026 – 10 a.m. – Hybrid: in person on campus and via Zoom
March 18, 2026 – 4:30 p.m.
March 24, 2026 – 7 p.m.
Applying
Choosing to enroll in the Leadership Academy at MCLA is a wise decision to move your education career forward. A supportive cohort structure, instructors who are leaders in the field, and a digestible online program with short residency requirements results in a comprehensive and transformative experience.
The application for the 2026 cohort will open on Oct. 1, 2025.
Application requirements can be found here:
qUESTIONS? Contact US
Division of Graduate & Continuing Education
dgce@mcla.edu
413-662-5575
Marianne Young
Leadership Academy Director
marianne.young@mcla.edu
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