Volusia Leadership Academy
The Volusia County School District recognizes the importance of developing the leadership potential of its current employees in an effort to promote individual professional growth and to ensure sustained continuous improvement for the district as a whole. District leaders need to understand the impact of leadership and possess the ability to provide direction and support which align, sustain, and enhance effective operations of the district.
The Volusia Leadership Academy, hereinafter referred to as the "Academy", is a two year leadership development program that will afford an opportunity to those in district level administrative roles to develop the skills and knowledge necessary to be successful district leaders. Those interested in school-based administration should pursue Pathways to Principalship. Participants in Pathways to Principalship will acquire similar skills and knowledge through the Principal Internship, and it is not necessary for them to participate in the Academy if they are interested in district leadership positions as well.
The Academy curriculum is based upon 12 core leadership competencies and special skills required as identified by Superintendent's Staff as essential to functioning in upper level district positions.
Application Process
There are three levels of screening which lead to the selection of participants for the Academy. The 2013-2015 pilot cohort is open to the following job categories: Assistant Directors, Assistant Principals, Coordinators and Specialists. Interested applicants must meet the following minimum criteria:
Active Volusia County Schools administrative employee for the last three years
Evaluations for the last three years which demonstrate success
Clean Professional Standards record
Bachelor's Degree
Level1 - Self Nomination
Level 2 - Application and References
Level 3 - Interviews
Academy Curriculum
Academy Curriculum and Schedule
Academy Manual
Contact Information
Leadership Academy Curriculum Coordinator
Linda Knowles, Assessment & Development Coordinator
Division of Human Resources
leknowle@volusia.k12.fl.us
386-734-7190 ext. 50762