• Director - Dr. Candace Hopkins

    With almost 20 years in the world of education, I am honored to say that 16 of those years have been in leadership. As an Assistant Principal, I embraced the critical role of overseeing academic success. I am a proud graduate of Houston ISD, and I am deeply committed to giving back to the community that shaped me. I am honored to serve as the Director of 1st-Year Assistant Principal Programming in the Leadership & Strategic Initiatives Department (LSI), where I empower new leaders to thrive in their roles. This position is near and dear to my heart as I have been exactly where 1st-Year Assistant Principals are and was elated whenever I received support. My mission is to inspire and equip educators to make a lasting impact on students, teachers, and most of all, the leaders that support the learning community.  

    To develop and coach 1st year Assistant Principals, our program aims to enhance their instructional leadership skills through a comprehensive and multifaceted approach. We provide a variety of learning opportunities, including in-person training sessions that offer hands-on experience and face-to-face interactions, as well as virtual training that allows for flexible and accessible learning. Additionally, we offer personalized coaching sessions tailored to address the specific needs and challenges of each Assistant Principal. By combining these different methods of support, we ensure that 1st year Assistant Principals are well-equipped with the knowledge, skills, and confidence they need to excel in their roles and lead their schools effectively.

     

    The AP Collab Lab provides a dynamic platform where all Assistant Principals (APs) are immersed in a culture of networking, fostering rich exchanges of ideas, and cultivating heightened leadership acumen within a deeply supportive and collaborative environment. This initiative is designed to encourage continuous professional growth and development, ensuring that APs have access to a wealth of knowledge and expertise from their peers. Through this engagement, participants will be able to share best practices, discuss challenges, and develop innovative solutions to common issues faced in their roles.

    We will convene once a month on Thursdays from 5 PM to 7 PM, starting in September. These sessions are structured to provide ample time for meaningful discussions, interactive activities, and collaborative problem-solving exercises. Each meeting will feature a blend of expert-led presentations, peer-led workshops, and open forums for sharing insights and experiences. By participating in the AP Collab Lab, Assistant Principals will not only enhance their leadership skills but also build a strong professional network that supports their ongoing growth and success in educational leadership.

     

EMERGING LEADERS EXPERIENCE

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