Chapter 11: The Experiences of Women in a U.S. Department of Education School Leadership Preparation Cohort Program

This chapter explores the experiences of women in a School Leadership Program (SLP) cohort designed to create transformational leaders for public schools. The goal of the case study was to gain an understanding of the experiences of aspiring female leaders through their journey, as well as through the experiences of those who have become school leaders. Lessons from these women can help us understand both their own experiences in their SLP cohort, but also help us reflect on how to better develop leadership programs that support aspiring women leaders. Program sustainability is reflected not only in how the preparation program itself can continue, but also in the lasting impact the preparation program has on the individuals that were prepared.