PROPEL Theory of Action

If we create the pathway for aspiring principals to develop their knowledge, skills, and dispositions, then they will be effective school leaders who are truly prepared for their role in ensuring that all students receive a first-rate education.

History

Through a partnership with Broward County Public Schools, FAU’s Department of Educational Leadership and Research Methodology (ELRM) has worked together on several initiatives including the development of a job-embedded Principal Preparation Program from a competitive grant opportunity awarded by the Florida Department of Education entitled, Principal Rapid Orientation and Preparation in Educational Leadership (PROPEL) Program. Together, we received additional funding from the Wallace Foundation to continue our success in building the next generation of School Leaders here in Broward County.

The award provides funding to reform and streamline both BCPS and ELRM school leadership preparation programs with the outcome of creating a single, seamless, leadership preparation continuum, resulting in successful completers earning dual Level I Educational Leadership Certification and Level II School Principal Certification. By leveraging resources of the school district and university, aspiring school leaders will be better prepared in instructional and “turn-around” leadership by engaging in a an internship (in Phase 1) and apprenticeship (in Phase 2) designed to immerse participants in the challenges of administrative practice, including those targeting increasing teacher effectiveness and raising academic achievement for all students.