The Leadership Challenge framework has reshaped the way I think about leadership. The 5 Practices of Exemplary Leadership: Model the Way, Inspire a Shared Vision, Challenge the Process, Enable Others to Act, & Encourage the Heart have given me both a language and a roadmap for my role as a leader. Instead of viewing leadership as simply guiding others, I now see it as creating the conditions where people feel empowered, valued, and motivated to grow. This shift has made me more intentional in how I show up for my colleagues, students and community (Lisa Blagus, Wicomico County Public Schools)
Throughout the ALE cohort, I have had the opportunity to reflect deeply on both of my strengths and areas for growth through our classes, assignments, & collaborative efforts. This experience has provided professional development that directly aligns with my role as a school leader. While I have attended many professional development workshops in the past that did not always impact my growth, I can say that the insight, knowledge, & practices gained from this cohort have significantly contributed to my leadership development (Brandon Austin, Somerset County Public Schools)
Overall, I have learned so much about myself as a person and a leader through this professional development. I felt more confident walking into my interview for Assistant Principal and felt my answers were more thought out and well spoken. I have gained confidence in myself as a leader, and I have gained a network of people to assist me in situation that arise (Morgan Cooper, Cecil County Public Schools).
Ultimately, this year has helped me see leadership as a lifelong journey of learning, reflection, and connection. The Five Practices are no longer abstract concepts – they’ve become guiding habits that influence how I show up every day. My commitment moving forward is to keep growing in each of these areas, to lead with authenticity, and to create spaces where others can thrive alongside me (Isa Sheldon, Caroline County Public Schools).
Overall, this year has been a transformative journey. I am grateful for the opportunity to learn, grow, and connect with others who are equally committed to leadership development. I recognize that the path to exemplary leadership is ongoing, and I am excited to continue building on the foundation established through The Leadership Challenge (Briana Beulah, Dorchester County Public Schools).
My heart is set on continuing to do what I know is right—for my colleagues, for our students, and our school. I hope that, over time, it becomes clear that shared leadership is not about threatening someone’s role, but about strengthening all of us as we work toward what I best for our students and families (Kathy Keim, Salisbury Christian School).
I will continue to ground my leadership in my values, while focusing on articulating a clearer shared vision, setting measurable goals, and inviting feedback from those I lead. Just as importantly, I hope to cultivate these same reflective habits in others, empowering them to lead with purpose and authenticity. The Leadership Challenge has not only strengthened my understanding of what great leadership looks like – it has helped be better understand who I am as a leader and how I can continue to grow in service of my school community (Matt Hoffman, Worchester County Public Schools).
This journey has reminded me that leadership is not static—it is a continuous process of reflection, growth, and action. I am leaving this professional development with a deeper sense of responsibility to live out these practices daily and to keep developing into the leader I aspire to be (Robin Coulter, Kent County Public Schools).
Designed for professional educators seeking to strengthen their leadership skills and behaviors, refine their leadership practices, and broaden their impact across schools and districts. Staffed and facilitated by leadership experts and consultants in the field of leadership, the ALE is a two-year-long, twelve-part series of in-depth professional development sessions. Through a variety of teaching and learning formats, participants will develop their leadership competencies for achieving extraordinary outcomes within their organizations. Leadership is a journey and a process; it is not an event. ALE will liberate the leader within each participant. All participants will receive a certificate for successful completion of the program.
2024-2026 ALE Cohort Alumni