PSJA ISD Launches New Leadership Academy to Develop Future Principals

PSJA ISD Launches New Leadership Academy to Develop Future Principals 

PHARR – As part of strategic efforts to develop leaders, Pharr-San Juan-Alamo ISD (PSJA ISD) recently launched a new Leadership Academy, an intensive program designed to build a strong pipeline of future school principals from within the district. Twenty-one dedicated educators were selected to join this inaugural cohort, which aims to prepare them for advanced leadership roles, with the ultimate goal of enhancing educational outcomes for PSJA ISD students. The Academy kicked off with its first session held Saturday, Nov. 2, 2024 at PSJA Southwest Early College High School. 

“Our district is a champion of opportunities for all, and that includes cultivating leaders within our PSJA Family,” said Dr. Alejandro Elias, PSJA ISD Superintendent. “We are investing in our educators, supporting their growth, and empowering them to be the transformative leaders our schools need. The PSJA Leadership Academy is not just a program—it’s a pathway to ensure our district’s future is in the hands of those who know our students and community best.” 

The 2024-2025 PSJA Leadership Academy will offer a rigorous professional development experience consisting of four immersive sessions tailored to equip these talented leaders with the skills needed to excel as future campus administrators. Each session will provide hands-on training, leadership workshops, and real-world problem-solving exercises focused on the essential competencies required for the modern principal.  

Through this academy, PSJA ISD reaffirms its commitment to fostering a community of capable leaders prepared to make a difference in students’ lives grounded in the district’s Leadership Values of Positive Engagement; Student-Centered Excellence; Joint Empowerment; and Adaptive Innovation.  

“We commend these amazing leaders for being part of this select group who get to be part of this transformative leadership journey,” said the Executive Officer for Secondary Schools Dr. Nora Rivas Garza. "True leadership is about caring deeply for those you serve—your students, your staff, your families. At PSJA ISD, we are looking for leaders who are not only dedicated to our mission but also driven to create the very best opportunities for all. We want them ready to set the standard as exemplary leaders." 

Upon completion of the rigorous academy, these educators will be added to PSJA ISD's principal candidate pool, positioning them as top contenders for future principal roles within the district. This initiative aligns with PSJA ISD’s strategic plan to develop a strong internal leadership pipeline and ensure continuity in its mission to provide high-quality education for all. 

“When the opportunity to apply for this Leadership Academy came up, it caused me to reflect on my journey as a leader and where I want to go next,” said current PSJA North ECHS Assistant Principal Dr. Celena Hoglund who is going through the program. “When you are given an opportunity, you take it. Having a growth mindset is very important.” 

The selected educators represent a diverse and passionate group committed to growing as leaders and serving their communities. With the support of district leadership, including mentorship and guidance from PSJA’s experienced administrators, these future leaders are poised to make a significant impact in the years to come. 

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