MCLA Leadership Academy Announces Info Sessions, Opens Applications
NORTH ADAMS, Mass. — Massachusetts College of Liberal Arts (MCLA) Leadership Academy concluded its summer residency on July 20 with 22 educators completing this phase of their journey toward becoming school administrators.
The program, which has seen remarkable success with alumni now serving in leadership roles across Massachusetts and New York, will open applications for its 2026 cohort on Oct. 1.
"This program is rooted in the arts and social justice. It's not just about getting your credentials for school leadership. It's about finding your voice and being an education advocate," said Marianne Young, Leadership Academy coordinator.
The MCLA Leadership Academy combines the convenience of remote learning with essential on-campus experiences. Unlike traditional two-year programs, participants complete this certificate program in just one year, attending only four on-campus residencies while maintaining their teaching positions.
Program Highlights:
- One-year completion versus two years at other institutions
- Hybrid format with only four on-campus visits required
- Unique focus on arts and social justice in educational leadership
- Cultural experiences including Mount Greylock, Clark Art Institute, MASS MoCA, Bridge of Flowers, and Bennington Museum
- Highly regarded by New York and Massachusetts State Departments of Education
Participants enter the program with a Master's degree and three years of school experience, though registered teaching certification is not required. The current cohort includes primarily educators from New York, reflecting the program's strong reputation throughout the Northeast.
"Our alumni consistently describe this as a life-changing experience," Young noted. "They come to us as teachers and leave us as confident education advocates ready to lead positive change in their schools and communities."
The program serves educators throughout Western Massachusetts, extending to Boston and Cape Cod, as well as New York from Manhattan and Brooklyn to Albany, Rochester, and Buffalo areas. Southern Vermont educators are also encouraged to apply.
Multiple information sessions are scheduled to help prospective students learn more about the program. Info sessions provide potential students with the opportunity to meet with faculty, staff and alumni to learn more about the program. Sessions will be held at MCLA.
- September 24, 2025 - 4:30 pm
- October 14, 2025 - 7:00 pm
- October 15, 2025 - 4:30 pm
- November 20, 2025 - 7:00 pm
- December 9, 2025 - 4:30 pm
- December 10, 2025 - 7:00 pm
- January 12, 2026 - 7:00 pm
- February 12, 2026 - 4:30 pm
- March 14, 2026 - 10:00 am - Hybrid: in-person on campus and Zoom
- March 18, 2026 - 4:30 pm
- March 24, 2026 - 7:00 pm
About the MCLA Leadership Academy: The Leadership Academy is part of MCLA's Division of Graduate and Continuing Education, preparing current educators for school administration roles through an innovative curriculum that emphasizes both practical leadership skills and advocacy for educational equity and justice.
For more information about the Leadership Academy or to complete an inquiry form, visit the Leadership Academy webpage. Applications for the 2026 cohort open October 1st.
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