Principal Academy

Alternative Certification Program
Houston Independent School District

Consider the HISD ACP Principal Academy for Collaborative Engagement (PACE) as your leadership development pathway.

February 1, 2012

The Application process is closed!

Visit this website for updates.

The selection process for PACE (Principal Academy for Collaborative Engagement) - a grant funded by the U.S. Department of Education has been updated. The selection process is now aligned with Houston ISD's recruitment and selection criteria for principal / assistant principal pipeline.

What type of candidates are we looking for?HISDSeal

Houston ISD's Human Resources, Leadership Development, and Alternative Certification divisions are looking for a diverse group of individuals who are highly motivated, results-driven, and reform-minded to join the next cohort of aspiring leaders and complete their principal certification through the HISD Alternative Certification Program. Successful candidates must be able to demonstrate or show proof of a master’s degree, overall 3.0 or higher GPA, there years of teaching experience, and a positive recommendation from your principal.

This comprehensive initiative is funded by a multi-million dollar U. S. Department of Education grant designed specifically for and led by high-need urban leadership. The process is scaffolded by a tightly-woven safety net as part of the principal certification experience - field supervisors, University of St. Thomas faculty, HISD Leadership Development.

 

The Principal Academy for Collaborative Engagement (PACE) Grant will offset the majority of program costs for those selected to participate. We are looking for 33 qualified individuals to join the 2012-2013 cohort. The application deadline is January 31, 2012; classes begin May 2012. [Note: Acceptance into the program does not guarantee campus administrator or leadership positions. Further, if you currently hold a principal or mid-management certificate, you are not eligible to participate in this initiative.]

How do I Apply?

There are 4 steps you need to complete in the selection process (pdf).

Step 1

To be eligible to apply candidates must meet the following minimum State requirements:
  • Master’s Degree from an accredited institution of higher learning
  • Minimum of 3.0 G.P.A. out of 4.0 from Masters program
  • Three years of successful teaching experience on a valid Texas Teacher Certificate

Prospective applicants will submit an Application Portfolio that includes the following:
  • One page application form (pdf)
  • Cover letter – highlighting leadership experience
  • Resume – highlighting leadership experience
  • Official transcript of Masters Degree
  • Copy of teaching certificate
  • Copy of PDAS, MPDAS or other appraisal instrument over last three years
  • A completed nomination form from principal and two references from current supervisor and colleagues

Delivery of Application Portfolio:
By mail - Ryan Professional Learning Center, 4001 Hardy, Houston, TX 77009 attention Pat Ashley.
In person – drop off application to Pat Ashley at Ryan Professional Center, building B, room 101.
Ms. Ashley’s phone number is 713-696-0693.

If applicant meets qualifications for step 1 they will proceed to step 2

Step 2
  • Candidate is referred to HISD’s Recruitment and Selection team to complete an online assessment.

If applicant meets requirements for step 2 they will proceed to step 3

Step 3
  • Recruitment and Selection will schedule a skills demonstration of the role of a principal to assess candidate’s knowledge and skills.

If applicant meets requirements for step 3 they will proceed to step 4

Step 4
  • Recruitment and Selection will conduct a structured in person interview..

If applicant meets interview requirements they will be notified of their selection into PACE

 

When is the Information Meeting?

All meetings will take place from 5:00 - 7:00 PM at the Ryan Professional Learning Center (4001 Hardy St. Houston, Texas 77009). RSVP at this link. Click here to take survey to attend information meeting.

 

Steps You Need to Complete

  1. Read and follow directions for selection process
  2. Complete and submit your application portfolio
  3. Attend one of the scheduled information meetings

Who to Contact

Alejandro Morua, amorua@houstonisd.org
(713) 696-0600 office

Links

Application (pdf)
 Principal/Supervisor Nomination (pdf)
 Selection Process (pdf)

 

PACE Grant Commitments

As a participant in the U. S. Department of Education School Leadership Program, the majority of the program costs associated with your leadership development and Texas principal certification will be paid by the PACE Grant awarded to Houston ISD Alternative Certification Program. In return for this financial benefit, you must sign a contract agreement commiting to the following:

 

Principal Academy Contact Information

Alejandro Morua
amorua@houstonisd.org
Phone: (713) 696-0600 office
Map to office for "In Person" delivery
HISD Professional Learning Center
4001 Hardy Sreet, Suite B 101, Houston, Texas 77009