When I joined the Michigan Leadership Fellows, I expected to grow. What I didn’t anticipate was how profoundly the experience would shape the leader I am today and prepare me for the realities of the principalship.
One of the most impactful aspects of the fellowship was the collaboration with leaders from across Michigan. Working alongside peers from a wide range of communities broadened my understanding of equity work and exposed me to diverse approaches to solving leadership challenges. Those conversations pushed my thinking and expanded my perspective in ways I still rely on.
The fellowship’s focus on developing an actionable, equity-centered problem of practice was transformative. Narrowing my focus, analyzing real challenges, and working through them with colleagues gave me concrete strategies and analytical habits that I now use daily as a principal. It was leadership learning rooted in real work—not theory.
The monthly mentor coaching became an essential support system throughout the experience. Those conversations offered space to process successes and struggles, receive honest feedback, and rethink my problem-solving approaches. Many of the reflective practices I developed during those sessions now guide my work with my own associate principal.
Perhaps the most lasting impact came from the program’s emphasis on intentional reflection. Monthly sessions with the cohort strengthened my ability to consider multiple perspectives, slow down my thinking, and approach complex situations with greater purpose. I still return to my fellowship notes when navigating new challenges because the tools and frameworks remain directly relevant to my work.
If you are an assistant principal, dean, or district leader looking to take the next step—or if you supervise someone who is ready for more—this fellowship offers one of the strongest pathways in the state for preparing future principals. I encourage you to apply or recommend a colleague.
Learn more at:
https://massp.com/michigan_leadership_fellows/