During the two-day fall summit, we will explore topics around focusing direction (analyzing purpose alignment to goals, clarity of the strategies to reach goals) and building collaborative cultures (establishing cultures of growth, modeling learning leadership, building capacity, and structures for collaborative work).

During the two-day spring summit, our learning time will shift to identifying how we deepen the learning in our schools/systems (clarity of learning goals, precision of pedagogy, using collaborative inquiry, peer coaching models), and securing accountability within our schools/systems (internal and external accountability).

In addition to the two-day learning summits listed above, each leader will participate in two onsite visits to another leader’s buildings and/or an onsite coaching visit with a USA-Kansas staff member. Building leaders may select to do both days in peer observation or may choose to do a combination of a peer observation date and a coaching date. This cohort will also engage in ongoing check-in sessions via Zoom during months where onsite meetings are not being held (November/December, January, April).

Administrators who have completed Elevate Leadership 1 & 2

• $2000 Non Member

• $1000 USA-Kansas Member

• $300 PLN District Member

• Cost Includes hotel expense, credentialing, and online platform access

October 1, 2025

• 10:00 a.m.-4:00 p.m. Learning

• 5:15 Happy Hour

October 2, 2025

• 8:30 a.m. Coffee & Networking

• 9:00 a.m.-2:00 p.m. Learning

February 4, 2026

• 10:00 a.m.-4:00 p.m. Learning

• 5:15 Happy Hour

February 5, 2026

• 8:30 a.m. Coffee & Networking

• 9:00 a.m.-2:00 p.m. Learning

• November 20, 2025

• January 9, 2026

• April 15, 2026

• 9:00-10:00 a.m.

The USA-Kansas Elevate Forward Series provided an invaluable opportunity for collaboration among administrators from diverse districts. Through engaging discussions and practical planning sessions, we explored strategies to effectively implement and achieve our personal building goals. A key focus of the series was the importance of fostering a shared vision among teachers, support staff, and the broader community—an essential foundation for a positive learning environment and collective efficacy.

The series also emphasized the role of leadership in driving meaningful change. We gained insights into how to prioritize impactful work that directly contributes to student success. By empowering our building leadership teams to collaboratively define success, we strengthened our ability to support our schools and inspire stakeholders toward a united purpose.

Additionally, the professional learning we received enhanced our instructional leadership capabilities, equipping us with concrete tools and actionable steps to implement in our schools. This comprehensive approach ensures that all leaders can rally their communities around a shared vision, fostering a culture that believes in and supports the success of every student.

I highly recommend the USA-Kansas Elevate Forward Series to any educational leader looking to enhance their leadership skills, build collaborative networks, and drive meaningful change in their schools. This professional development opportunity provides valuable insights, practical strategies, and ongoing support to help leaders cultivate a shared vision and create a positive, results-driven school culture. The experience has been truly impactful, equipping me with the tools and confidence to lead with purpose and inspire those around me. If you are committed to growing as a leader and making a lasting difference in your school community, this series is an opportunity you won’t want to miss.

Kelly Swift, Principal, Roesland Elementary, USD 512

I have had the privilege of participating in Elevate 1, 2, and Elevate Forward, as well as taking my BLT to the Elevate Your Building Leadership Team summer workshop. In my 25 years in education, these opportunities have had a profound impact on my growth as a leader. The knowledge gained through these experiences is rooted in research-based best practices, which have not only enhanced my leadership skills but also helped me build the leadership capacity of my staff.

Elevate helped me create a more collaborative school community, improved our school climate, and allowed us to engage in meaningful, sometimes difficult, conversations about instructional and systems practices. One of the greatest benefits has been the network of amazing leaders I’ve connected with throughout the state.

I highly recommend Elevate Leadership opportunities to any leader who is looking to grow and become the best version of themselves. These experiences have been invaluable in guiding our school toward success.

Heath Henderson, Principal, Skelly Elementary, USD 490

Over the past three years, I have participated in the Elevate Leadership series, completing Leadership 1, Leadership 2, and now the newly created Elevate Forward. During the first two years, I served as an elementary principal, and this year, I transitioned into a district coordinator role. Throughout this journey, I have found immense value in the content and structure of these learning opportunities, with direct applications to every professional role I’ve held.

Beyond the theoretical foundations, Elevate has provided me with specific strategies and practical applications that bring leadership concepts to life. The candid conversations with fellow educational leaders have been particularly impactful, creating a space where we can be vulnerable and learn from one another’s experiences. I am confident that my participation in the Elevate Leadership series has strengthened my leadership skills, and I highly encourage anyone, at any stage in their leadership journey, to take advantage of this professional learning opportunity.

Dr. Jason Jones, Coordinator of Curriculum, PD, and Mentoring,

Gardner Edgerton USD 231