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.
Info sessions provide potential students with the opportunity to meet with faculty, staff and alumni to learn more about the program.
*Information Sessions for the 2026 cohort will be available to register for soon!
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 October 1, 2025.
More information about program requirements and the application process can be found here:
Division of Graduate & Continuing Education
dgce@mcla.edu
413-662-5575
Marianne Young
Leadership Academy Director
marianne.young@mcla.edu
NORTH ADAMS, Mass. — The Friday morning coffee klatch at the parklet on Eagle Street has grown by leaps and bounds as a stopover to catch up with friends and acquaintances on the way to work. This past Friday saw a singular bump in attendance as members of the Berkshire Leadership Academy saw an ...
