نظرة عامة على البرنامج

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Introduction to the Principal PreK-12 Program

The Principal PreK-12 program at Gannon University is designed to prepare principals as instructional leaders who can effectively and ethically bring about continuous school improvements that result in increased student achievement. This unique Principal Certification PK-12 is based on effective models of adult learning and provides candidates with an online community and the opportunity to cooperate and collaborate throughout the sequence of four connected online core courses.

Program Distinctions

• Cohort: The program is designed to provide candidates with a strong professional network that continues to provide support and professional development as they move through their leadership careers.
• Program Delivery Model: The 12-month online program allows for complete flexibility, accommodating the needs of busy educators and eliminating the need for travel to Gannon University.
• Program Advisor: Each candidate is assigned a Program Advisor who serves as the point of contact and mentor throughout the candidate's preparation program.
• Highly Qualified Faculty: Courses are taught by highly qualified content experts who are successful practitioners in their respective fields.
• Differentiated Internships: Internships begin at the introductory level, continue through key skills areas at the developmental level, and culminate in a mastery level capstone internship.

Length of Internships

Internship experiences are integrated throughout the program, involving candidates in critical leadership responsibilities. Candidates are required to complete 360 hours of internship, with 125 hours fulfilled through 35-hour internships in three classes and a 20-hour internship in one class. The remaining 235 hours are completed in the GEDU 728 Principal Mastery Internship class.

Professional Portfolio

The Principal Professional Portfolio, scheduled as the final course in the program, covers all courses completed and serves as an effective tool in career advancement.

Exit Criteria

To successfully complete the program, candidates must:

• Complete all required coursework as indicated on the program plan of study.
• Achieve course grades of B- or higher.
• Maintain a final GPA of 3.0 or higher.

Steps to Certification

1. Verification of Experience: Provide a chief school administrator's verification of three years of relevant professional experience.
2. Pass the Praxis Exam: Currently, the exam is 6990, School Licensure Assessment.
3. Apply for Certification: Gannon University recommends candidates for certification upon successful completion of the program and review of the candidate's application.

Admission Requirements

• Application: Complete an application for admission.
• Transcripts: Submit official transcripts from a regionally accredited college or university, verifying a Master's degree in Education or a related field and a minimum cumulative GPA of 3.0.
• Letters of Recommendation: Submit three letters, including one from the current superintendent and one from the current building principal, speaking to the candidate's potential as an effective school leader.
• Documentation of Experience: Submit documentation of three years of educational experience working under a certificate.

Curriculum

The 18-credit program consists of four online academic classes, concurrent internships, and culminating portfolio and internship projects. The program can be completed in one full-time year, with courses offered in 7-week sessions. The curriculum includes:

• GEDU 720: Quality Teaching, Continuous Improvement, Professional Accountability.
• GEDU 722: School Financial Management.
• GEDU 723: Legal Aspects of Educational Administration.
• GEDU 725, 726, 727, 731: Internship courses corresponding to the above classes.
• GEDU 728: Principal Mastery Internship.
• GEDU 730: Diverse Learner Competencies for School Leaders.
• GEDU 732: The Principal Professional Portfolio.

Student Learning Outcomes

Upon completion of the program, candidates will be able to:

• Demonstrate knowledge of instructional, strategic, and operational leadership.
• Design and lead staff in professional development.
• Evaluate data to inform decision making.
• Demonstrate the impact of change within a school environment.