Illinois Principals Association

School Leader Networks

The purpose of the School Leader Networks is to grow and support learning leaders who are gaining the practical wisdom necessary to effectively develop and sustain equitable learning organizations.

We have developed year-long programs targeted at school leaders at each phase of development. You can find out more about the programs by clicking the tabs above or the links below.

ASPIRING — The Aspiring stage arises as an educator first considers a future administrative role as a real possibility. This stage establishes the mindset, leadership intelligences, and community of peers necessary for aspiring administrators to envision themselves as future learning leaders.

LAUNCHING — The Launching stage occurs during years 1 and 2. This stage provides new learning leaders with the skills, resources, and community of peers necessary to cultivate culture, assess systems, increase learning, and understand the leadership necessary for the unique context of their learning organization.

BUILDING — The Building stage typically occurs somewhere during years 3-5 in the school leader role. This stage equips established learning leaders with the supports needed to effectively sustain culture, build systems, increase learning and develop their learning organization, while affording the self-care necessary to build a sustainable career.

MASTERING — Successfully working through the first three stages positions a school leader for the Mastering stage, where arguably the most impactful and lasting impact can be achieved. This stage promotes the self-actualization of learning leaders through the continuous growth of themselves and their learning organization to ensure a school of equity and excellence which leaves a lasting legacy.

Applicants may qualify for a $500 scholarship (awarded on a first-come, first-served basis).

2024-2025 Schedule

All Networks
August 5, 2024
Bloomington DoubleTree
8 a.m.–5 p.m.
All Networks
August 6, 2024
Bloomington DoubleTree
8 a.m.–12 p.m.
All Networks
October 20, 2024
Peoria
IPA Conference
2 p.m.–5 p.m.
All Networks
October 21, 2024
Peoria
IPA Conference
All Networks
October 22, 2024
Peoria
IPA Conference
Launching, Building & Mastering
January 10, 2025
Bloomington DoubleTree
8 a.m.–3:30 p.m.
Aspiring
January 18, 2025
online via Zoom
9 a.m.–12 p.m.
Aspiring
February 22, 2025
online via Zoom
9 a.m.–12 p.m.
Launching, Building & Mastering
February 28, 2025
Bloomington DoubleTree
8 a.m.–3:30 p.m.
Aspiring
March 15, 2025
online via Zoom
9 a.m.–12 p.m.
All Networks
May 6, 2025
Illinois State Capitol
10 a.m.–4 p.m.