Are you interested in starting your journey to earn your Illinois principal endorsement? Apply today to be considered for one of 100 scholarships that will be awarded by IPA (through an ISBE grant) to help offset the costs of completing an ISBE-approved Illinois Principal Preparation program.
Support for 2023-2024 Includes
- $7200 of tuition support per scholarship recipient.
- 20 hours of mentoring by an experienced school leader who has received significant mentor training.
- $500 to offset 5 days of subbing costs and/or professional development opportunities so the aspiring leader can engage in school-based or program-related leadership activities.
- Aspiring IPA Membership to connect aspiring school leaders to the largest professional learning network of school leaders in the state of Illinois.
To participant in the program, applicants must commit to the following:
- Be committed to becoming a school leader (principal, assistant principal, dean, etc.) upon completion of the preparation program.
- Gain acceptance into a state approved principal preparation program.
- Satisfactorily complete all principal preparation program requirements.
- Be willing to be mentored by an experienced school leader.
- Complete program evaluations and provide other appropriate information as needed by the ISLPP.
Application instructions:
The application window will open on June 1, 2023, and will stay open through 11:59 p.m. on June 30, 2023. We will not be able to accept late applications. Individuals applying to this program may NOT have begun principal preparation coursework before July 1, 2023. Award notifications will be made in August. Full details about the program can be found on IPA's Illinois School Leader Pipeline Program website.
You must have a Google email account to complete the application process. If you do not have a Google email, it is recommended that you create a free account before proceeding with the application.
As part of the application, you will be required to submit:
- Your updated resume.
- Three professional references (name, position, organization, email address and phone number).
- A narrative essay (limited to two pages, double-spaced) that addresses the following: (a) why you are interested in serving as a principal; (b) who inspired you to further your educational journey; (c) how you will commit to using your principal endorsement to serve a diverse group of students in urban or rural settings; and (d) your experiences and personal qualities that will help you become a successful school leader.
Click here to submit your application today
In addition to the application, you must apply to the degree-granting university program where you intend to complete your program. A list of ISBE-approved university principal preparation programs can be viewed online here. Application costs are not covered by this scholarship program.
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