The principalship is one of the most complex and critical roles in public education—and one of the most undersupported. In Michigan, we face growing shortages not only in our teacher pipeline, but in school leadership as well. That’s why MASSP developed Strengthening Leaders, a comprehensive, research-based suite of induction, mentoring, and coaching programs that support educators at every stage of their leadership journey.
Whether you are preparing for your first leadership opportunity, transitioning into a new administrative role, or seeking to deepen your work in equity-centered leadership, Strengthening Leaders provides personalized, sustained, and scaffolded development designed to help school leaders thrive.
A Full Continuum of Leadership Support
MASSP’s Strengthening Leaders framework offers a comprehensive continuum of leadership development designed to meet the diverse needs of school leaders at every stage of their journey. Whether an educator is exploring leadership for the first time or serving as a veteran building principal, MASSP provides tailored programming to build capacity, deepen leadership practice, and foster lasting impact across Michigan schools.
- Aspiring Principals is a 12-month program for educators considering a leadership role. It includes quarterly Zoom sessions, on-demand learning modules, real-world case studies, and one in-person workshop. This early leadership experience is designed to spark growth and reflection, helping participants envision and prepare for future leadership roles. The cost is $1,500 per participant.
- Path to Leadership serves as MASSP’s formal administrator certification pathway. Participants complete eight asynchronous modules and a field experience aligned with Michigan standards for PK–12 certification. This program is ideal for those seeking initial certification and leadership credentials. The cost is up to $7,825 per participant.
- Emerging Leaders supports new principals and assistant principals in their first three years in a building-level role. This three-year induction model emphasizes individualized coaching and cohort-based learning. Year 1 includes monthly cohort Zoom sessions and monthly one-on-one mentor coaching. Year 2 transitions to bi-monthly sessions and bi-weekly coaching, while Year 3 includes quarterly sessions and continued bi-weekly coaching support. The cost is $3,000 per year and is fully reimbursable through Section 27h.
- Advancing Leaders is designed for building-level administrators with four or more years of experience. The program focuses on strengthening inclusive, equity-driven leadership practices through equity-centered learning modules, bi-weekly leadership coaching, and collaborative cohort sessions. The structure mirrors the Emerging Leaders model: monthly sessions and coaching in Year 1, bi-monthly sessions in Year 2, and quarterly sessions in Year 3. The cost is $3,000 per year, fully reimbursable through Section 27h.
- Mastering Leaders supports veteran administrators seeking to further refine their practice by serving as mentor coaches in the Strengthening Leaders program. Participants complete a two-day Mentor Coach Induction, attend quarterly tactical Zoom sessions, and participate in an annual one-day Mentor Coach Institute. In this role, they provide support to early-career leaders while continuing their own development. Mentor coaches receive a $1,000 stipend per assigned protégé.
Specialized Leadership Pathways Through Statewide Partnerships
In addition to MASSP-led programs, Strengthening Leaders includes specialized opportunities through strategic partnerships with MCAN and MAASE to support assistant principals and inclusive leadership efforts.
- The MI Leadership for Equity and Inclusion Fellowship, supported by MCAN, is an 18-month, application-based experience for assistant principals aspiring to the principalship. The fellowship includes monthly virtual sessions, quarterly in-person gatherings, one-on-one coaching, attendance at the AP Summit and EdCon, and a culminating capstone project. The fellowship is fully funded, with districts only responsible for the cost of EdCon registration.
- The Developing Inclusive Leaders program, created in partnership with MAASE, is a two-year learning experience for experienced building-level administrators. Participants focus on developing the knowledge and skills necessary to lead inclusive, culturally responsive schools—particularly for students with disabilities. Year 1 includes monthly on-demand modules (2–3 hours each) and three in-person sessions. Year 2 includes three additional in-person sessions and ongoing coaching support. Participants should expect to dedicate 6–10 hours per month to fully engage in the experience. This program is eligible for Section 27j funding through participating districts.
Together, these programs form a cohesive system of leadership development that supports school leaders across Michigan in building capacity, advancing equity, and driving continuous improvement in every school setting.
Built for Alignment and Funding Eligibility
All Strengthening Leaders programs are designed to align with Michigan Compiled Law 380.1249b(1)(o), which requires districts to provide mentoring or coaching to school administrators in their first three years of a new position. Through Section 27h of the State School Aid Act, districts may receive up to $3,000 per administrator annually to support mentoring and induction activities. Additionally, Section 27j funds are available to support inclusive leadership development through MASSP’s partnership with MAASE.
Districts can contract directly with MASSP using 27h funds, or access 27j support through MAASE—typically with no additional cost to the district. These programs are turnkey, aligned to professional standards, and grounded in research to ensure leaders receive the sustained support they need to be successful.
More Than a Program—A Professional Learning Network
At its core, Strengthening Leaders is more than just a set of programs—it’s a statewide professional learning network. It connects Michigan school leaders through personalized coaching, structured learning experiences, and a vibrant community of peers committed to building culture and leading learning.
We invite you to explore how MASSP can partner with your district to attract, train, and retain exceptional school leaders. Learn more about each program, explore funding options, and get started at massp.com/strengthening_leaders.