
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 executives across ESAs who are ready to:
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Deepen their leadership practice
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Build high-performing teams
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Embrace personal wellness as a leadership strategy
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Learn in community with a supportive, empowered cohort
Pricing
$1,975 per participant for the year
Travel and lodging for in-person events not included
Ready to lead with purpose and power?
This Academy for Women Leaders is designed to support your whole leadership journey—with time to reflect, grow, connect, and recharge alongside other exceptional women in ESA leadership.
Don’t miss this one-of-a-kind experience!
2025-2026 Schedule
October 7–8, 2025 | In-Person Retreat | Chicago, IL
Theme: Leading Boldly – Empowered Women Shaping the Future
Includes team-building, strategy sessions, and restorative leadership practices
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 | Location TBD
April 29, 2026 | Virtual Session | 2:00–3:30 pm ET
For information about this program, contact:

Joan Wade, Ed.D
Executive Director
Email

Sheila King, Ed.S
Chief Strategy Officer
Email

Jessica Huizenga, Ed.D
Chief Program Officer
Email