Testimonials

Danta Alexander-Keller

25-26 Cohort

Participating in the Indianapolis Public Schools Aspiring Leaders cohort has been an invaluable milestone in my professional journey. This program has not only broadened my perspective on educational leadership but has also equipped me with the specific technical skills and adaptive mindset necessary to serve as a successful school administrator within our district. 

The most impactful aspect of the program was the bridge it built between theory and practice. By providing real-world experiences and direct access to key district leaders and current school administrators, the cohort offered a transparent look into the complexities of the role. These insights have given me a profound understanding of how to navigate the unique challenges and opportunities within IPS. 

I feel fully prepared to transition into leadership with confidence. This program has laid the foundation for me to become a phenomenal school leader, dedicated to fostering excellence for our students, staff, and the broader Indianapolis community.

Kimberly Williams

25-26 Cohort

Aspiring Leaders Academy has given me the confidence to express my beliefs and perspectives. In the past, I spent much of my time following others’ visions without considering my own. Through this experience, I’ve learned to be more vocal in meetings and to provide clearer feedback and effective action plans to the teachers I work with. Networking has been a very valuable component of the academy. 

Marques Gibson

Cohort 25-26

I love that this has truly challenged me in multiple ways. Specifically, I feel more comfortable with having courageous conversations with both staff and leadership. Specifically, I have had multiple conversations with staff regarding items that either I noticed needed to be addressed or motivating staff to provide extra effort in both instruction and school level events. Each conversation, though originally courageous, resulted in very positive results and a great winter program.  

Kelly Durham

25-26 Cohort

When reflecting on my time so far this year in Aspiring Leaders, I am very grateful I made the choice to enter into this program.  I believe that one of the greatest parts of this program is networking alongside likeminded colleagues within IPS.  Collaborating and learning alongside one another has been a great experience.  Navigating leadership can be hard, however, this program has guided us through a plethora of topics that will allow us to be well rounded leaders.  I have thoroughly enjoyed our visits to all the different schools and I absolutely love hearing from all the different principals within IPS.  Each one brings their own perspective on leadership and you learn so much from them.  I feel like this program has helped to grow my capacity as a leader and has pushed me to take on more leadership roles within my school. 

Being part of the 2024-2025 Aspiring Leaders cohort has been a transformative experience that allowed me to revisit and reevaluate my leadership identity and the impact I strive to make across all stakeholders. This journey challenged me to think critically about how we make informed decisions, the systems that shape education, and the profound effects those decisions have on the very individuals we aim to serve—our students. Engaging in rich dialogue with colleagues across the district gave me a fresh perspective on how personal experiences, data-driven insights, and intentional systems play a crucial role in fostering meaningful change. This experience has reinforced my commitment to creating equitable opportunities, driving student success, and empowering others to grow as educational leaders.

Named George Washington High School's Assistant Principal for the 25-26 school year.

True leadership is not about a position held instead it’s the posture one takes no matter the role that they currently serve in. This is what aspiring leaders has taught me. Aspiring leaders academy has helped me find my voice, learn how to leverage my influence, and how to be confident in my leadership abilities both now as well as for the future. Coming into the program I thought we were simply going to be trained on how to become Assistant Principals but instead we were equipped with all of the tools needed to be the best leaders we are now as well as in the future. Aspiring leader is a great program for anyone that is interested in sharpening their leadership skills to become the equitable leader that is needed for today’s students and stakeholders. If one is ready to take their leadership abilities to the next level this program is for you! Join today!!! 

Named Data Integration Coordinator for the 25-26 school year.

Aspiring Leaders is the perfect program for those committed to continuous learning and professional growth. Whether you have a specific leadership goal in mind or simply want to evolve in your educational journey, this program meets you where you are and propels you forward. Engaging and thought-provoking, Aspiring Leaders challenges you to expand your thinking beyond the classroom. You'll be surrounded by like-minded individuals who inspire, challenge, and elevate your knowledge, professionalism, and understanding of the inner workings of education.

Joining the Aspiring Leaders Academy was a pivotal step in my leadership journey. Through monthly  sessions, guest speakers, school walkthroughs, and hands-on management training, we gained invaluable skills that we could immediately apply in our schools with the support of our principals.

The cohort model not only built a strong pipeline of future leaders for the district but also fostered a lasting network of peers who continue to support one another beyond the program.

Now, in my first year as an administrator, I can clearly see the impact of ALA on my leadership—particularly in collaborative decision-making and instructional leadership. I am confident that the Academy’s influence will continue to shape my growth as I serve within Indianapolis Public Schools for years to come.

Named Culture and Climate Coach for the 25-26 school year.

Prior to participating in Aspiring Leaders, I knew I wanted to be a leader, but I wasn’t sure how I would lead effectively.  I knew that supporting teachers was the thing I enjoyed most about being an educator.  Seeing my colleagues' impact in the classroom fuel students’ learning touched my heart. 

 Upon participating in Aspiring Leaders, I learned how my current position in IPS could grow into a larger reach by utilizing the leadership strategies and resources to hone my skills as an instructional coach.  I have stepped up my role as member of our campus Instructional Leadership Team.  I have become more vocal in regard to the needs of teachers and students.  I often advocate for the processes that help teachers learn new strategies to utilize with students, and the need for training teachers and students before we evaluate the effectiveness of our efforts.  

I recommend Aspiring Leaders to anyone who wants to grow their leadership skills and help to foster the growth of others.

Thanks Aspiring Leaders, Facilitators, Principals, Mentors, and Coaches who took time to allow me to glean from your wealth of knowledge and experience.

Named Career Academy Coordinator at Arsenal Technical HS for the 25-26 school year.

My experience in the Aspiring Leaders cohort was truly empowering. The program helped me refine my leadership style, strengthen decision-making skills, and gain the confidence to step into leadership roles. Collaborating with like-minded peers and learning from experienced mentors was invaluable in shaping my growth as a future leader.