MASA is authorized through the Michigan Department of Education to issue Administrator Certificates with a Central Office Endorsement using an alternate pathway to certification. The Horizon Leadership Academy (HLA) focuses on strengthening leadership skills and strategies that equip school leaders to become effective superintendents and central office administrators.

HLA is aligned to the Michigan Standards for the Preparation of Central Office Administrators, as well as the National Education Leadership Standards (NELPS) – District Level. The program is designed for new superintendents, aspiring superintendents, central office administrators, and building administrators and directors who are looking for a job-embedded and authentic avenue to earn a Central Office Endorsement (CO) on their current Administrator Certificate.

For those who do not yet possess a certificate, candidates can concurrently earn an Administrator Certificate and Central Office Endorsement. 

*NOTE: If you are aspiring to be a building-level principal and earn your (ES) Endorsement, please refer to the Michigan Association of Secondary School Principals Path to Leadership program.

Throughout the HLA experience, candidates work with other cohort members to network and learn about the skills and expected proficiencies of central office leaders and superintendents, while connecting to the actual work and initiatives within their own district. Candidates engage in meaningful projects within and for their district, to ensure immediate application of learned skills. Throughout the program, candidates will create a digital portfolio of their projects demonstrating their application of competencies, as well as identify and work with a mentor to complete a 240/300-hour internship/clinical experience. 

New Cohorts Coming Soon!

(Please check back for details)

Important Details

• Given the structure/format of this alternative pathway program, attendance at each session is mandatory.
• Satisfactorily completing the Horizon Leadership Academy program will earn candidates a Central Office Endorsement on their current Administrative Certificate and 150 SCECH credits.
• Candidates who do not currently hold a building level certificate/endorsement may concurrently earn their School Administrator Certificate by completing an additional 300-hour internship experience.

Enrollment Eligibility Requirements

1. Degree requirement:
   As per R380.105 (1246(1)(b)): Candidate must possess a master’s or higher degree, OR a bachelor’s degree with a minimum of 3 years of experience performing work at the Central Office level (e.g. a District Business Official, Human Resource Director, State & Federal Programs Director etc).
   *If the candidate is seeking admission with only a Bachelor’s Degree, MASA requires a letter of recommendation from the superintendent attesting to the individual’s skills and experience, along with a contract of employment or job description for the three years of service in this capacity.)
2. Completion of MASA Horizon Leadership Academy application
3. Submission of most recent college/university transcripts

Additional Requirements

1. Each candidate, along with HLA faculty, will mutually select a mentor for the duration of the program.
2. Each candidate will complete an internship/clinical experience of 240 or 300 hours over the course of a minimum six-month period, depending on certifications needed and current position at the building or district level.
3. Candidates will receive a final grade for the course based upon the submission of an online digital portfolio, equity audit/reflection paper, final recommendations paper, and capstone project. 
4. Please review the dates for the selected Cohort above and confirm your availability to participate with your district/supervisor. Given the nature of the program, attendance is required at all sessions. 
5. Confirm your understanding of the terms/conditions defined in the application. 
6. A $150 non-refundable application fee is due at the time of application. 
7. Once accepted, at least 50% of the tuition fee must be paid at least 30 days prior to the cohort start date. The remaining balance is due in the following fiscal year. 
8. Candidates seeking a school administrator certificate and/or their Central Office Endorsement (CO) have three years to complete the program, and all requirements, once they are enrolled as participants.

Program Content and Skills Overview

• Using Influential Leadership Strategies 
• Leading Activities that Foster School Climate and Culture 
• Ensuring Equity in Education 
• Understanding Individuals’ Perspectives, Needs, and Behaviors 
• Using Coaching Strategies across Various Scenarios and Situations 
• Leading, Implementing, and Measuring Strategic Planning Initiatives 
• Leading Curriculum, Instruction, and Technology as part of Continuous Improvement 
• Leading and Supporting Instructional Staff for Student Success 
• Using Effective Communication to Educate, Support, Influence, and Advocate
• Facilitating School Operations and Management 
• Developing Effective Teams and Addressing Group Dynamics 
• Leading and Fostering Family and Community Engagement
• Establishing effective Board Governance and Superintendent Relationships
• Demonstrating accountability with School Law, Policies, Regulations 
• Operationalizing School Budget and Financial Planning 
• Expanding knowledge and strategies for Effective  Labor Relations (Relationships, Contract Negotiations and Administration)

HLA Post Graduate Articulation

Two postsecondary options are now available to HLA program graduates (since 2020)!

Application, enrollment, and scope of the required classes varies by candidate’s prior master’s degree work and HLA cycle completed. HLA may articulate up to 15-18 credits toward degree attainment.

Western Michigan University – Ed.S. or Ph.D.
→ Contact: Dr. Rusty Stitt – wayne.r.stitt@wmich.edu

Northern Michigan University – Ed.S.
(leading to a possible Ed.D. with Central Michigan University)
→ Contact: Dr. Bethney Bergh – bbergh@nmu.edu

Frequently Asked Questions

Questions?

For additional questions or more information, please contact Dr. Brian Davis at bdavis@gomasa.org.