Assistant Principal Preparation Program

Program Description

Assistant Principals in Austin ISD must understand the dynamics and culture of not only their campuses but also the vision for the district as a whole. The Assistant Principal Preparation Program (AP3) prepares a select cohort of experienced Austin ISD educators to develop and hone their craft through the lens of the Austin ISD Leadership Framework. The program provides cohort members the opportunity to gain aligned professional learning focused on knowledge, experience, and skills needed to be a successful assistant principal in Austin ISD. 

Objectives

• Engage in learning opportunities that align with the Austin ISD Leadership Framework, District Priorities,and AISD Values;

• Gain skills needed to be a successful campus administrator as outlined by the AISD Leadership Framework and CAPR; and

• To equip each participant with the knowledge and skills needed to obtain a leadership position of choice. 

Program Components

Professional learning experiences will take various forms, including the following:

• Monthly Meetings (5:00 - 7:00 PM)

  • These two-hour, face-to-face learning sessions are mandatory to maintain participation in the program. Each meeting will focus on core content that prepares aspiring assistant principals for future leadership positions. Guest instructors will often facilitate the learning.  Additionally, participants will engage in learning walks on campuses with opportunities for feedback and discussion.

• Leadership Development

  • The program provides a structured framework for participants to reflect on, develop, and refine their leadership abilities. Through a combination of workshops and personalized coaching sessions, they acquire essential leadership competencies such as effective communication, strategic planning, team building, and conflict resolution.

• Coaching Sessions (one per semester):

  • Cohort members will meet for one-on-one coaching sessions with Leadership Development. Additional coaching is available as needed.

How to Apply for AP3

To be considered for the Assistant Principal Preparation Program, each applicant must first meet the established criteria to apply. 

Cohort Membership Criteria

In order to be selected for AP3, each applicant must meet the following minimum criteria: 

• Currently serving as a teacher, instructional coach, or non-teaching professional in Austin ISD;

• Currently, hold an Administrative Certification or are scheduled to complete Master’s  Degree coursework and Principal Certification by May 31, 2026;

• Has completed at least three years of successful service as a teacher or non-teaching professional; and

• Must have a PPfT final rating of “Effective” or better from the school year preceding application submission.

Cohort Application Process

All aspiring AP3 members must complete the following to be considered to participate in the program.

• Complete the 2025-2026 Assistant Principal Preparation Program (AP3) Application;

• Our Leadership Development team will request one Recommendation Form submission from your current Principal or Central Office Supervisor; and 

• Participate in an interview facilitated by the Talent Engagement & Development Team 

Additional Information

• Previous AP3 members are not eligible to apply.

• Applicant submissions are screened by leaders from Talent Engagement & Development.

• AP3 appointments are announced in late May for the upcoming school years

Selection Process Dates

• April 11, 2025: Application Window Opens

• May 2, 2025: Application Window Closes

• Week of May 5, 2025: Recommendation Form Sent to Current Principal or Central Office Supervisor

• Week of May 12, 2025: Virtual Interviews

• Week of May 30, 2025: Notifications are Sent to 25-26 AP3 Cohort Members

Questions?

Contact: Jessica Lopez-Grantham, Coordinator of Leadership Development

E-mail: jessica.lopez-grantham@austinisd.org