PSAP/LLPS PROGRAM DESCRIPTION
About the Program
Teachers21, in partnership with the Boston College Lynch School of Education and the Massachusetts Association of School Superintendents (MASS) offers a unique, combined doctorate and licensure program designed specifically for full-time school administrators who aspire to become district leaders. Now in its sixth cohort, the three-year program combines a pragmatic leadership toolkit with research-based approaches to social justice, ethical leadership, school improvement and reform.
The Leadership Licensure Program for Superintendents (LLPS) is a Department of Elementary and Secondary Education (DESE) approved path to fulfill the requirements for a Massachusetts initial license as a Superintendent/Assistant Superintendent. With successful completion of the companion Professional School Administrator Program (PSAP), students earn a Doctor of Education in Educational Leadership (Ed.D.) from Boston College.
Application Information
View the PSAP/LLPS Program Information Sheet
Contact Us
Lincoln D. Lynch, III, EdD
Program Administrator
Leadership Licensure Program for Superintendents
Massachusetts Association of School Superintendents/Teachers21
llynch@teachers21.org
T: 508-298-2237
Vincent Cho, PhD
Associate Professor, Educational Leadership and Higher Education (ELHE)
Director, Professional School Administrator Program (PSAP)
Lynch School of Education and Human Development, Boston College
vincent.cho@bc.edu
T: 617-552-3574
LLPS Licensure & Program Components
During the first two years, curriculum modules are taught concurrently with a 500-hour practicum so candidates can apply the course content in district settings. LIncensure candidates work under the direction of a mentor and supervisor, both of whom are licensed superintendents or assistant superintendents. Students have regular opportunities for feedback, assessment, and reflection. The third year is dedicated to completion of a capstone dissertation on a problem of practice in educational leadership.
Mentors from MASS, practicum supervisors, distinguished faculty and the PSAP/LLPS team support candidates to successfully complete the program. The cohort model emphasizes collaborative learning and creates a support network that extends far beyond the bounds of the program.
Problem-based activities are aligned to the instructional topics:
- DNA of Leadership and Culture
- Productive Superintendent/School Committee Partnerships
- Management and Operations
- Equity Centered Leadership
- Meeting the Needs of Diverse Learners
- High Performing Teams
- Supervision and Evaluation
- Family and Community Engagement
Who can Apply for Admission
The program seeks creative thinkers and education innovators in public, charter, Catholic and other independent schools who are deeply committed to equity and social justice. Diversity, urban experience, and potential for exemplary leadership will also be considered.