Lead Boldly. Connect Deeply. Thrive Together.
AESA’s Academy for Women Leaders is a yearlong journey designed for ESA women Superintendents, Executive Directors, Deputy Superintendents, and others in similar positions who are ready to grow, collaborate, and thrive.
Through powerful in-person gatherings, virtual learning, personalized coaching, and meaningful peer connections, this Academy empowers women to lead with clarity, confidence, and care.
What to Expect
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One Cohort of women ESA executives from across the country
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2 In-Person Retreats (October & March)
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3 Virtual Sessions (90 minutes each)
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Executive Coaching/Thought Partnership (up to 5 hours)
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Special Meetup at the Annual Conference & Expo
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Tangible Takeaways: Leadership tools, curated books, and resources
Who Can Apply?
Women in senior leadership roles at ESAs, including:
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Superintendents
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Executive Directors
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Deputy Superintendents
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Assistant Superintendents
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Other comparable executive-level leaders
Pricing
$1,975 per participant for the year
Travel and lodging for in-person events not included
2025-2026 Schedule
October 7–8, 2025 | In-Person Retreat | Chicago, IL
November 13, 2025 | Virtual Session | 2:00–3:30 pm ET
December 4, 2025 | In-Person Lunch Meetup | Annual Conference & Expo in Colorado Springs, CO
February 2, 2026 | Virtual Session | 2:00–3:30 pm ET
March 10–11, 2026 | In-Person Retreat | St. Louis, MO
April 29, 2026 | Virtual Session | 2:00–3:30 pm ET
Want a Deeper Look?
We’ve created an overview of the program to help you explore the themes, sessions, and outcomes in more detail.
The Academy is already underway for the 2025-26 year. If you’d like to be part of it, please reach out to Ann Fiene, Chief of Staff.
For more information about this program, contact:
Joan Wade
Executive Director
Email
Sheila King
Chief Strategy Officer
Email
Jessica Huizenga
Chief Program Officer
Email