Belmont University today announced the launch of its Educational Leadership Program, a principal preparation and administrative licensure program. With online classes, the program is accessible to applicants across the state who desire the necessary qualifications to become a school principal in Tennessee. The program is offered through Belmont’s College of Education and is approved by the Tennessee Department of Education.
“Our new educational leadership program will provide aspiring school principals with the technical and leadership skills necessary to lead a school effectively, but perhaps more importantly, our program also focuses on the personal leadership traits needed to embrace the passion, fulfillment, and joy in this challenging but critically important role,” said Dr. Jim McIntyre, dean of the College of Education and assistant provost for academic excellence.
Belmont University has a long history of preparing educators. Belmont was founded in 1890 by two visionary women who were school teachers from Philadelphia. Now, the University is taking the next step and preparing school principals for the future. The two new educational leadership degrees — Master of Education (M.Ed.) or Educational Specialist (Ed.S.) — offer preparation for aspiring principals in an affordable, accessible and convenient structure.
The M.Ed. program is tailored for experienced teacher leaders looking to become Assistant or Head School Principals within 3-8 years, while the Ed.S. program caters to both seasoned teacher leaders and early career administrators, such as Assistant Principals, with similar aspirations. All candidates must have 3 or more years of teaching experience to qualify.
Candidates can pursue their licensure through two pathways: the Residency Pathway, intended for individuals employed at least half-time as public school administrators (usually as an Assistant Principal) under the Aspiring Instructional Leader License (ILL-A), and the Clinical Practice Pathway, designed for those not currently in administrative roles in public schools.
The Educational Leadership Program is designed to equip educators to become successful student-focused school leaders. “While the primary focus is on instructional, organizational and operational leadership, Belmont uniquely cultivates personal leadership attributes that will assist future leaders to navigate the complex landscape of modern schooling,” said Dr. Devin DeLaughter, assistant professor of education.
The program will enroll students from across educational sectors: traditional public, charter, independent, private and faith-based schools and will facilitate a cross-sector learning community. Belmont’s College of Education strives to teach brilliantly, innovate boldly, advocate passionately and serve faithfully, growing teachers and leaders who embody those ideals.
“In addition, the program will connect candidates with our Massey College of Business for valuable coursework in data analytics and innovation,” said McIntyre. “Collaboration among Belmont's various academic colleges provides aspiring leaders with a well-balanced approach to the current educational issues at hand.”