In September 2025, the Massachusetts Association of School Superintendents will launch a new pilot program: the M.A.S.S. Superintendent Support Network (MSSN).
The program will engage a selected cadre of sitting superintendents in a year-long, structured group model to strengthen their practice and learn strategies to address persistent challenges.
MSSN will be built on a collaborative culture of mutual support, strategic thinking, and professional growth. The program is designed to enhance superintendents’ access to the resources and collegial relationships they need to navigate the complexities of school district leadership.
Eligibility and Application
- 24 superintendents will be selected for the pilot program through an application process.
- Applicants must have completed at least three years as a Superintendent.
- Applications are due Friday, August 8, 2025.
- Participants will convene in September for a full-day, in-person orientation.
- There is no cost to participants for the program during the pilot year.
Cohort model
- Participants will be organized into three small, confidential cohorts of eight members.
- Each cohort will be supported by 2-3 veteran Superintendent Facilitators.
- Each cohort will meet virtually on a monthly basis, for 1.5 – 2 hours.
- Monthly meetings will provide opportunities for participants to share, listen, and learn as colleagues discuss problems of practice and specific challenges they face.
- Participants will support one another by sharing experiences and brainstorming strategies and solutions using a structured protocol.
Superintendent Facilitators:
- are veteran district leaders who are currently leading a district or recently retired;
- will create safe, respectful spaces for dialogue;
- will guide the group process in each monthly cohort meeting;
- will ensure that each meeting remains focused, productive, and responsive to the needs of participants;
- will provide participants with individualized support as needed, to supplement the small group work.
MSSN was developed in alignment with the M.A.S.S. strategic plan to “build superintendent centered wrap-around support systems and programs that include relationships and collaboration with all allies and partners so superintendents are able to confront their challenges and lead their school districts.”
If you have questions, please contact Sue Charochak, scharochak@gmail.com.