A Transformative Yearlong Experience for ESA CEOs
The Leadership Academy is an exclusive, yearlong professional learning experience tailored for up to 25 sitting ESA CEOs. This immersive program brings together a diverse group of visionary educational leaders to engage in dynamic learning experiences—both virtual and in-person—culminating in an international travel experience in partnership with ACES International.
What to Expect
Participants will:
- Explore key leadership challenges facing today’s ESA leaders.
- Discover emerging trends shaping the future of education.
- Dive deep into critical topics that impact ESAs nationwide.
- Engage in a global experience to broaden perspectives and inspire innovation.
Who Can Apply?
To be eligible, applicants must:
- Be a current ESA CEO with at least two years of experience.
- Commit to attending all academy events, including:
- Virtual and in-person sessions
- The international travel experience
- Three AESA conferences: Summer Leadership Conference, Advocacy in Action Conference, and the Annual Conference
- Hold a valid passport by October 1, 2025.
Tuition and Expenses
- $13,000 (includes all academy sessions and the international travel experience).
- Each agency is responsible for CEO travel expenses, except for the international trip, which is covered in tuition.
More Information
Download this fact sheet to get comprehensive program details, including an in-depth schedule.
Download this overview of the 2026 Professional Tour to Spain and Portugal.
Ready to Elevate Your Leadership?
Don’t miss this opportunity to connect, grow, and lead with confidence on a global scale.
Application Deadline: April 30, 2025.
The AESA Foundation offers scholarships to help offset eligible expenses such as lodging and travel. Funding amounts and recipient selection are based on availability. The scholarship link is included in the application form.
Here's what a participant had to say about AESA's Leadership Academy:
"I cannot say enough about how much this year has meant to me personally and professionally. To get to know all of you, it's been one of the greatest experiences of my life. I have learned so much from each of you and our organization is better because of you. It is impossible to quantify the return of the investment the time spent together. Thank you, everybody, for being open, transparent, and just awesome!"
For information about this program, contact:
Joan Wade, EdD
Executive Director
920-420-8822
Email
Sheila King, Ed.S
Chief Strategy Officer
515-778-4778
Email
Many thanks to our 24-25 Leadership Academy Sponsors!
