Aurora University Alternative Principal Endorsement Program

The Ed Leaders Network is proud to partner with Aurora University in Illinois to support their Alternative Principal Endorsement Program. This innovative program allows for aspiring school leaders who hold a current Illinois Professional Educator License (PEL) and master’s degree in an area of education to earn their principal endorsement in just one year through a unique combination of internship activities and Micro-Credentials.

Aurora University’s principal internship is designed to meet Illinois State Board of Education (ISBE) requirements and National Educational Leadership Preparation (NELP) standards. Throughout the internship, participants will gain knowledge and apply skills and dispositions related to school leadership.

While completing internship activities, participants will also complete corresponding Micro-Credentials developed and delivered by the Ed Leaders Network. A full listing of the required Micro-Credentials is below. Not only will earned Micro-Credentials count toward completion of the Principal Endorsement through Aurora University, but they will also be displayed on your Illinois Professional Educator License.

Additional requirements for the Principal Endorsement include passing evaluation training and Illinois’ two principal endorsement tests.

Please visit the Aurora University Alternative Principal Endorsement Program webpage for admissions requirements. You can also email ELN Support with questions. For additional information click here to download a PDF flyer about the program.

Required Micro-Credentials for the Aurora University Alternative Principal Endorsement Program:

• Driving Vision & Mission
• Fostering a Data Literacy Culture
• Exemplifying Ethical Behavior
• Embedding a Culture of Student Centeredness
• Embedding an Ethical Work Culture
• Retaining and Developing Staff
• Ensuring Accountability
• Managing Systems Logistics
• Evaluating Operational Systems Effectiveness
• Providing Effective Instruction
• Assessing Student Learning and Growth
• Meeting All Academic Needs
• Creating a Results Oriented Learning Culture
• Communication Advocacy