The course of the 1997-1998 Utah Principals Academy has been developed by the Academy's Advisory Council. The Council is composed of representatives of various education-related groups and organizations. Their contributions of interest expertise, and time provide the framework for this important program.

The mission of the Principals Academy is to develop and enhance the leadership skills of practicing school administrators and to assist in developing the most effective principals possible for Utah schools.

The Utah Principals Academy was organized for the training of principals as instructional leaders. Through Academy experiences and educational challenges, these leaders are empowered with effective behaviors and proficiencies. The Academy Fellows set the pace for statewide educational improvement and reform and are recognized as exemplary educational leaders.

Goals

• Building fellowship and support among colleagues who are committed to growth, experimentation, and school improvement
• Providing instruction in the latest research and exemplary school practices
• Developing expertise in implementation of research and exemplary school practice in schools
• Encouraging the implementation and ongoing assessment of personal action plans related to Academy experiences
• Fostering collaboration among educators, parents, government, business, and community toward the achievement of school goals
• Creating a self-perpetuating cadre of school adminstrators to serve as facilitators/trainers for other administrator.

Fellows shall represent all school level and geographic areas in the state. Fellows shall be selected among successful, practicing, certificated school adminstrators by application. Fellows shall be selected for one academic year during which they will commit themselves to attend planned Academy activities. The Academy will provide for expenses required of Fellows for the inservice training, including instruction, materials, travel, lodging, and meals. The Academy will not reimburse for salary or substitute costs.

Periodic Open Seminars are scheduled for all administrators and teachers in the state on relevant education topics. Summer Institutes are designed to enhance leadership. Co-sponsorship of conventions with UAESP and UASSP. Collaboration in mentor internship with universities, and Utah Principals Academy plays a significant role in the leadership preparation of Utah educators.