In Their Own Words ...
The Principalship Program at the University of Texas at Austin has had much to offer in the areas of rigor, diversity, challenge and community. It has been great to be a part of such a dynamic group of thinkers, problem-solvers and learners. I feel that this program thoroughly prepares future instructional leaders for the critical issues facing schools today.Sonja Howard, a second year student, is an Assistant Principal and Instructional Coach at Mathews Elementary School in the Austin Independent School District.
I chose to complete my principal's training and certificate at the University of Texas because I wanted the best preparation for improving educational opportunities for all students. This program has done more than prepare me, it has expanded my ideas about diversity, instructional leadership and the greater role of education in a global society.David MacRoberts is a second year student and Assistant Principal at Memorial Intermediate in New Braunfels, Texas.
The wisdom I have gained from this program has shaped my decisions and performance to aspire to build a rigorous learning environment with instructional excellence for children. Also, this program has provided me the opportunity to continue to cultivate and advance as an instructional leader as well as become an agent of change in the educational system. Monica Woods is a second year student and assistant principal at Ortega Elementary School in Austin ISD.
In the beginning, I had reservations about returning to college after being out for about 15 years. I was worried about not being able to fulfill the program requirements since I was still serving as a classroom teacher, involved in community programs, and providing for my wife and three children, in addition to attending classes during the year and in the summer. The Principalship Program is challenging, motivating, and empowering. I am very proud to have been associated with such a high caliber program that is one of the best in the nation. In addition, I owe my success in this program to my wife and children for their encouragement, support, and patience during the past two years.Guadalupe Velasquez is a second year student and Assistant Principal at Dawson Elementary School in the Austin Independent School District.
Being a part of the FEA Principalship Program at UT gave me the opportunity to connect with a group of individuals who are as committed as I am to becoming instructional leaders who are agents of change and focused on improving the education for all students. I have grown so much, both personally and professionally, as a result of my experiences in the program.Yolanda Soto-Capuchino is a second year student and Assistant Principal at Govalle Elementary School in the Austin Independent School District.
What attracted me to this program and what I like most about the program is its commitment to social justice. Everyday we consider the implications of educational policy on all children. Curtis Wilson is a first year student and member of Cohort V who is an Assistant Principal at Del Valle High School in the Del Valle Independent School District.
After many years in education as a teacher and a reading specialist, I was drawn to administration only because of UT's unique perspective on leadership. Their emphasis is on developing and advancing a team of school leaders who are strong in curriculum and instruction while possessing the heart and soul for social justice was most appealing to me. This Principalship Program pushed my thinking and touched my passions and created a group of lifelong learners ready to forge a better path for all children.Amy Lloyd, a second year student, is an Assistant Principal and Instructional Coach at Barton Hills Elementary in the Austin Independent School District.
I told myself that I would never go into administration because the words "educational administration" always suggested to me a mindset that would be bureaucratic and out-of-touch. However, after attending the initial program orientation for nominated candidates, I walked away with the impression that the UT Principalship Program was trying to accomplish something different. Having placed my professional investment within the UT Principalship Program, I can say that I've not been disappointed. The focus on social justice that exemplifies the vision of the faculty and that of my fellow students has deepened my own knowledge and passion regarding public education. Scott Ford, a first year student and member of Cohort V, is an Assistant Principal at Connally High School in Pflugerville ISD.
Being apart of the Educational Administration Program at the University of Texas has impacted my life in numerous ways. This program has prepared me for the challenges that we face in education today. I have learned how to be more than just an effective instructional leader but a reflective practitioner of the art of educating children. The bonds that I have formed with my cohort cannot be broken as we begin our journey to make a difference in education. CaRita Forte, a second year student, is an Administrative Intern and Curriculum/Technology Integration Specialist at Stony Point High School in Round Rock Independent School District
The past year and a half has been a journey beyond my wildest dreams. Luckily, my journey has included 20 brilliant, outstanding, and thoughtful individuals who heighten the meaning of instructional leadership through social justice and engaged learning that is personal, meaningful, and relevant to students, parents, and educators. My travel mates will continue to be peers and mentors to me for a lifetime. Thanks y'all!Lisa Bush is a second year student and Assistant Principal at Lanier High School in the Austin Independent School District.
