Senior Leadership Cohort

A Professional Learning Community

October 2025 - May 2026

 

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Registration is NOW OPEN

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"I so looked forward to my PLC meetings. I enjoyed the camaraderie we developed as a group—it was wonderful to be in community with others with similar jobs. The “Problems of Practice” section helped us work through challenging situations, puzzling through possible solutions with the thoughtful guidance of a facilitator. Being in the PLC was incredibly useful to me and I highly recommend it!"

Program Overview

Senior Leadership PLC is a year-long cohort-based program of 6-8 independent school leaders. The program will support participants to take the next step in their career or fulfill their current role with greater confidence through a combination of methodologies.

Participants will:

• Work through problems of practice in community with a group of colleagues
• Wrestle with case studies
• Explore leadership concepts through direct instruction and skill-building activities
• Build a lasting network of colleagues
• Explore topics around management, supervision and leadership

Participants will meet monthly via zoom under the guidance of a skilled facilitator who has walked in their shoes at 8 NWAIS schools.

Participant Profile

Participants will typically be serving in a senior leadership role in a school such as a division or assistant head. Senior leaders who work in advancement and operations are also a good fit for this group and are encouraged to apply. Not every school has these exact positions, and participants in analogous roles should consider participation. If you are wondering if you would be a good fit for the program, please contact Emily McGrath.

Cohort Profile

Cohorts of around 8 participants will be developed with role and years of experience taken into consideration. The first two groups established will meet under the skilled guidance of experienced PLC facilitator, Marianne Picha. If there is significant interest to develop additional PLC groups, an additional experienced facilitator will be added, and their profile included here.

"Being part of the Professional Learning Community (PLC) has been a transformative journey for me as a professional support. It has provided a valuable platform for connecting with other independent school leaders and fostering a sense of collaboration. Brainstorming diverse solutions to the myriad challenges schools face has not only enriched my problem-solving skills but also broadened my perspectives. One of the highlights of my experience has been the opportunity to connect with Marianne, whose insightful advice and guidance have been invaluable. The PLC has not just been about professional development; it's been a source of inspiration, mutual support, and growth. It's where ideas flourish, bonds strengthen, and together, we strive to elevate educational standards and outcomes." - Previous participant

Program Components

• Eight Zoom meetings (October, November, December, January, February, March, April and May) – These will be scheduled with the cohort in the beginning of the year at times that work for all attendees.
• Access to PLC facilitator for up to one-on-one meetings and direct support and coaching
• Discounted access to 2025-26 NWAIS programming: The Leadership Institute or an NWAIS online course of your choice.
  

Registrants are encouraged to sign up by August 1.

While this may become an application-based program in the future, in this first, pilot iteration, potential participants will be able to sign up directly register to participate. We will complete the first round of cohort creation in mid-august. After August 1, registrations will be accepted on a rolling basis until the program is full.

Participants are encouraged to gather the explicit support for the necessary release time from their supervisor and head of school. Active participation and consistent attendance are an important component of the success for the entire group. Meetings will not be recorded, and make-up sessions will not be offered.