What we hear…

Testimonials

We are all facing similar challenges with the same end goal to help improve our communities through child education.

This is why we do what we do

HEAR FROM OUR MEMBERS

MASTERCLASS has been a transformative experience. I began the program feeling unsure of myself and my career path, and I’m finishing it feeling confident and equipped to move on to the next stage. Each module is carefully developed to ensure we learn the ins and outs of all aspects of the Superintendency and leadership in the Central Office. The learning platform is easy to use, the course materials are very worthwhile and well-organized. Our Zoom meetings provided valuable insights from experienced leaders. The peer consultations and personalized coaching were especially helpful, offering diverse perspectives and support that enhanced my leadership skills.”

Panagiota Athenelis

Assistant Principal, Marshal Middle School, Burlington Public Schools (Cohort 3)

One of the many benefits of taking MASTERCLASS is the relationships built through this shared experience. The knowledgeable, experienced instructors provide key insights in essential areas such as budgeting, building the leadership team, working with unions, and more while also offering ways to deepen our understanding of our personal leadership strengths and blind spots. In this way, this course is worthwhile for any educational leader.”

Annette Doyle

Elementary Principal and upcoming Ass’t Superintendent for Teaching & Learning, Sudbury Public Schools (Cohort 3)

MASTERCLASS has supported me immensely in my current position and future role(s)! This was certainly one of the most valuable professional development I have gone through as an educational leader. The class was marketed to me as learning everything I didn’t know I needed to know, and that held true. Hearing from educators who have been in the role, made mistakes, seen mistakes made, and have seen all the lessons learned from those mistakes has given me an insight into what a future for me in the Central Office could look like. Furthermore, I have increased my network of school administrators I would call on for questions, advice, and support.”

Edward Paris

Elementary Principal and upcoming Director of Teaching & Learning, Dedham Public Schools (Cohort 3)

MASTERCLASS course is an amazing opportunity for anyone considering working in a Central Office position. The insights provided by seasoned Superintendents demystified the responsibilities and provided real-time examples of what it means to work in a Superintendent and Central Office role. Through monthly coaching, coursework, and peer consultation, I learned more about myself as a leader and potential Superintendent than any other class I have taken. I highly recommend MASTERCLASS to anyone considering making the leap.”

Kathleen Provost

Assistant Superintendent for Curriculum, Instruction, and Professional Learning (Cohort 3)

MASTERCLASS provided multiple avenues of support and guidance in leadership. The content is extremely relevant, timely, and focused on all aspects of being an effective educational leader. Peer consultation, where colleagues shared current experiences and were provided with insights and suggestions from others, was very beneficial for the present and the future. Beyond the whole group experience, we were also partnered with a one-on-one coach who met with us monthly but was also available anytime we needed them. The relationships built with the coaches, the instructors, and the other participants have been invaluable, and I look forward to keeping in touch with all of them for years to come!”

Ellen Martin

Assistant Superintendent, Marshfield Public Schools (Cohort 3)

MASTERCLASS has allowed me to work in a cohort of peers with similar roles and examine problems of practice through various dynamic perspectives. Getting into our peer consulting groups helped me gain perspectives outside my building and district to recognize that there is a way to be effective as a leader in any circumstance no matter the challenge. MASTERCLASS allowed me to work with a cohort of peers in similar leadership roles and examine problems of practice through a variety of dynamic perspectives. Getting into our peer consulting groups helped me gain perspectives outside my building and district to recognize that there is a way to be effective as a leader in any circumstance no matter the challenge.”

Gabrielle Montevecchi

Elementary Principal, Beverley Public Schools (Cohort 3)

The opportunity to participate in the MASTERCLASS Aspiring Superintendents program supported my entry into a Superintendent position after being a long-time Assistant Superintendent. The topics were relevant to the new role I would take on and challenged me to consider upcoming real questions and dilemmas. My cohort of colleagues helped me to problem solve and grow in my leadership skills. My coach helped provide real actionable feedback.”

Margaret Adams

Superintendent, Hingham Public Schools, MA (Cohort 1)

I’m fortunate to be a member of MASTERCLASS for Superintendents. Our MASTERCLASS (for Superintendents) sessions were personalized to our needs, and we now continue to have trusted MASTERCLASS (for Superintendents) peers and coaches to talk with as we go forward in our new positions. As a result of MASTERCLASS for Aspiring Superintendents, I’m a more effective Superintendent, avoiding pitfalls that might have serious consequences.

David Ljungberg

Superintendent, Stoneham Public Schools, MA (Cohort 1)

The MASTERCLASS for Superintendents provided me with valuable professional development. Finding learning opportunities that address ‘real-world’ experiences is challenging for assistants and superintendents. MASTERCLASS (for Superintendents) provided a mentor, colleagues, and strategies to incorporate immediately. Not only are experienced professionals available during class, but they also meet with you one-on-one monthly and are available any other time as needed. They stay connected long after the course is over. This course was a great investment and made me a better leader.”

Andrea Schwamb

Assistant Superintendent, Wareham Public Schools, MA (Cohort 2)

The MASTERCLASS for Superintendents course had several benefits for me. One benefit was through the course content, which not only made me aware of “best” practices for district leadership, but more importantly, helped me to be reflective of “smart” practices for long-term leadership impacts. A second benefit was having (from the instructional team) a coach, while taking the course; my coach served as a thought partner with me in assessing strategies that engaged all district stakeholders, particularly on issues related to equity. A third benefit was the collaborative work with other district leaders, which enabled me to “re-think” how to improve school and district climates, contemplate impactful ways to strengthen challenging relationships and ruminate on how I might build a sense of collective capacity across the district.

André Morgan

Chief Opportunity, Access and Equity Officer (Cohort 1)

The MASTERCLASS for (Aspiring) Supers was designed to address the real-world experiences that superintendents face every day. The course was organized into manageable segments, with discussions and assignments that were thought-provoking and engaging. The materials were well-structured and easy to follow, and the instructors were accessible and supportive throughout the entire program.

One of the most valuable aspects of the course was the one-on-one executive coaching meetings. These meetings provided a safe space to discuss my concerns, explore different perspectives, and receive feedback on my leadership approach. The mentorship component of the course was invaluable, and it helped me to develop new strategies and approaches to solving complex problems.

Overall, the MASTERCLASS for (Aspiring) Supers was a fantastic investment in my professional development. It provided me with the tools, resources, and support to become a more effective leader and a future superintendent. I would highly recommend this course to any aspiring superintendent who is looking to enhance their leadership skills and become more effective in their future role.”

Andrew D. Rebello

Assistant Superintendent/Principal, Diman Regional Vocational Technical High School (Cohort 2)

“I am excited for leaders around our state to have this opportunity and have the highest regard for the experienced founders of MASTERCLASS for Superintendents.

I would have benefited tremendously from this program as an aspiring superintendent and highly recommend it to my colleagues. I’m looking forward to being a member of the experienced superintendent cohort.”

Bill Burkhead

Superintendent of Scituate Public Schools