The Phillips Academy Leadership Development Program (PALDP) aims to strengthen the leadership and management capacity of faculty, staff, and administrators and support participants in their own career development. The PALDP, which runs over the course of one academic year, offers insight into individual and institutional leadership through a series of in-person and virtual learning modules. Participants have the opportunity to strengthen their own vocational and professional growth through self-reflection, discussion, and action. As well, colleagues are challenged to step outside of their comfort zones by exploring their interior selves; strengthening impact within their campus communities; and, alongside fellow cohort members, pursuing a commitment to lifelong learning, growth, and development. Since the 2024 – 25 school year, the Leadership Development Program has convened a community of K‑12 faculty, staff, and administrators from various independent schools who seek to advance their own leadership capabilities and explore their ongoing career development.
“It’s equally validating to see faculty and staff serve our community in a new capacity or advance themselves and the field of education more broadly.”
Leadership in Practice
Educators from five independent schools complete a transformative year-long program at Andover
“The LDP helped me deepen my own understanding of the role of a leader and the kind of leader I am and want to be.”
Monica AlatorreLick-Wilmerding High School
FAQs
What are the individual program components?
Throughout the nine-month program, cohort members participate in (1) executive education coursework, (2) professional development modules focused on various aspects of leadership development, (3) small group meetings, (4) personalized coaching, and (5) a cumulative project offered in service to their school.
Is participation in the program done through in-person, online, or hybrid means?
The program features both in-person workshops (at the opening, mid-point, and close of the school year) and during the rest of the academic year, colleagues gather through virtual sessions.
How often and when do program sessions occur?
On average, sessions take place twice per month on Friday afternoons (1:30 – 2:45pm). Generally, one session each month features an all-cohort leadership module and the other session is reserved for small group discussions.
How many hours per week do participants spend participating in the program?
The total number of weekly hours depends on the participant and their choice of executive education program. In addition to the twice-per-month sessions (each lasting 75 minutes), executive education courses require between three and ten hours per week and last between four and twelve weeks. Participants are offered various options in order to select an executive education course or courses that match both their interests and schedules.
How many colleagues and schools have participated in the program?
Since its launch during the 2021 – 22 school year, the Phillips Academy Leadership Development Program has engaged more than 60 colleagues in supporting their ongoing growth and development. Since 2024, colleagues from five partner schools have participated in the program: Pomfret School (CT), St. Paul’s School (NH), Deerfield Academy (MA), Lick-Wilmerding High School, and Phillips Academy Andover.
Where can I learn more about the specifics of the program, including timing, logistics, and program costs?
For any program-specific information, please contact Eric Roland (eroland@andover.edu).
