Leadership Academy/CAGS

blending theory and practice



The MCLA Leadership Academy is a dynamic cohort program tailored for working professionals pursuing a role in educational leadership. Through a unique blend of academic rigor and practical skill-building, participants engage in a 14-day summer residency, two weekend residencies, asynchronous courses, and a 500-hour internship. Led by esteemed educators and practitioners, the Leadership Academy offers a comprehensive curriculum covering social, political, and academic theories in public education. With a focus on fostering anti-racist, equitable, and effective learning environments, participants take a deep dive into diverse activities including writing, discussions, group projects, fieldwork, presentations, and more.

Since its inception in 1997, more than 2,500 leaders have honed their skills, gained administrative credentials, and deepened their commitment to equity and justice thanks to the Leadership Academy. Approved by the Massachusetts Department of Elementary and Secondary Education, the Leadership Academy embodies transformative leadership, integrating anti-racist competencies throughout its coursework and field experiences. Join us to ignite your professional journey and make a lasting impact in education.

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Program details:


Attend an Info Session

Info sessions provide potential students with the opportunity to meet with faculty, staff and alumni to learn more about the program.

*Information Sessions for the 2026 cohort will be available to register for soon!

Attend an Info Session

Applying

Choosing to enroll in the Leadership Academy at MCLA is a wise decision to move your education career forward. A supportive cohort structure, instructors who are leaders in the field, and a digestible online program with short residency requirements results in a comprehensive and transformative experience.

The application for the 2026 cohort will open on October 1, 2025.

More information about program requirements and the application process can be found here:

july 2025 cohort july 2025

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                    qUESTIONS? Contact US

                                   Division of Graduate & Continuing Education
                                   dgce@mcla.edu 
                                   413-662-5575

                                   Marianne Young
                                   Leadership Academy Director
                                   marianne.young@mcla.edu



 

 

 

IN THE NEWS

Leadership academy members

NORTH ADAMS, Mass. — The Friday morning coffee klatch at the parklet on Eagle Street has grown by leaps and bounds as a stopover to catch up with friends and acquaintances on the way to work. This past Friday saw a singular bump in attendance as members of the Berkshire Leadership Academy saw an ...