The District Level Educational Leadership major is for students interested in earning the doctoral degree and leading and managing multi-school educational systems and school districts, and prepares individuals to serve as systems administrators and district superintendents. This option includes instruction in educational administration; education of students at various levels; system planning and budgeting; educational policy; educational law and regulations; public relations; professional standards and ethics; and applications to specific issues, cultural context, and geographic locales. Students choosing this option must hold an Illinois general administrative or principal endorsement upon admission, or an equivalent state credential. Students admitted to this option must complete all 60 SH of the program, including EDL 690 Educational Leadership Internship, and are then eligible to apply for the Illinois Superintendent endorsement.
Program Learning Outcomes
PLO1. Candidates will demonstrate skills in all aspects of school/district leaders and administration, including processes of planning, organization, communication, decision making, influence/politics, and evaluation stemming from a shared vision, mission, and core values.
PLO2. Candidates will develop relationships and collaborate among internal and external stakeholders to develop and promote a community of academic success, development of personal potential and well-being of all students.
PLO3. Candidates will lead adult learning and build capacity among school personnel, staff, and teachers to improve student achievement.
PLO4. Candidates will support intellectually rigorous and coherent systems of curriculum, instruction, and assessment for continuous improvement to promote each students’ academic success and well-being.
PLO5. Candidates will pursue educational equity through cultural proficiency and opportunity to advance the overall well-being of students.
PLO6. Candidates will act professionally, ethically, and demonstrate emotional intelligence in a compassionate, caring manner promoting each student’s success.
PLO7. Candidates will strive for school improvement by diagnosing challenges, working collaboratively, and using evidence to initiate change that promotes students’ academic success.