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Principal Leadership Institute

Applications

                                         

Applications are now open for the 25-26 cohort.  They will remain open through June 13, 2025.                                                 

PLI Coaches are matched with partners based on availability and proximity. PLI coaches are typically in a different district than their matched partner.  For the 2025-2026 school year, we have coaches available in the shaded areas on the map.

Principal Leadership Institute

The Principal Leadership Institute is a two-year program focusing on developing the leadership capacity of principals.  There are three pathways a principal can choose for a coaching focus – Distributive Leadership, Early Literacy (Science of Reading) Implementation, or First-Year Principals. Principal participants work alongside exemplary principal coaches using a Cognitive Coaching℠ framework. The program framework consists of a 2-day retreat, site visits, bi-weekly coaching sessions with principal coaches, regular networking sessions, and access to learning modules.

Leadership Matters

Principals across the state of Colorado are working in complex, dynamic learning environments and leading in times of uncertainty. Colorado needs resilient leaders who are skilled to lead through the daily challenges and increasing pressures of public education.  Investing in principal coaching is the best way to ensure our leaders are equipped to lead effectively. 

Theory of Action

IF principals can build systems that create a sense of collective teacher efficacy and a culture and climate that empowers staff,

THEN teacher retention and satisfaction will increase, and this will have a positive impact on student learning outcomes.

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PLI Pathways

There are three potential PLI pathways that participants will choose from. Use the buttons below to learn more about the PLI pathway options.

Distributive Leadership

Focuses on creating distributive leadership structures within a school

Early Literacy Implementation

Focuses on the implementation of literacy initiatives within a school

First Year Principals

Focuses on the needs of new building leaders


Principal Leadership Institute Cycle

Timeframe

Interaction

September

Principal Leadership Institute Retreat (In person)

  • Leadership identity
  • Assessment of School Best Practices
  • Develop Individualized Learning and Coaching Plan
October – May

Principals/Coaches Individualized Learning and Coaching Plan

  • Asynchronous Modules on Pathway Content
  • Site Visits to Participating Exemplary Schools
  • Anchor Text Reading
  • Cohort Networking Opportunities
October – May

Monthly Coaching Sessions with Assigned Principal Coach

Note: 60-minute coaching sessions - dates/times to be determined between principal coach and principal participant.

  • Coaching sessions to apply leadership practices
Staff Perception Surveys to see growths or shifts in practice

Questions?

Please contact Educator Development for additional information.