To Lead in Denver Public Schools, one must first fill out an online application. This consists of a cover letter that answers district-specific questions, two letters of reference, and a resume. Phew, step one down.
Next, some candidates will be invited to participate in a phone interview. Nothing unique, just a regular interview.
After this experience, a candidate must participate in an intensive in-person interview. This is a group activity where candidates work together and are observed in a fish-bowl setting discussing budget issues, a classroom observation and debrief “role play,” some kind of data analysis task, a parent-principal role play scenario, and finally a typical Q & A interview. As part of preparation for this interview, candidates are asked to review certain reading materials and formulate their “visions” for school leadership.
If they make it through this challenging round, candidates receive feedback. The interview isn’t just for show, the District actually hopes its candidates take something away from the process.
So you’ve done the online application, you’ve had a phone conversation, you’ve nailed the all-day in-person interview, you’ve got a job! Right? Wrong. Now, candidates must apply for the surprisingly few vacancies available. They hope to hear from a hiring manager or principal and then the individual school process can begin.
All this is to say – it is no easy task to become a leader in Denver Public Schools. None of this even takes into account the Masters coursework and/or principal licensure that candidates must also hold or participate in. Nor does it take into account the countless hours spent by school leaders working around the clock for their students and teachers. This job is essential, and competent, qualified people filling it is extremely important.
Great leaders are critical to helping teachers and students reach their potential. Denver Public Schools has a rigorous application process that seeks to insure that only highly qualified applications make it into schools. "You need a committed leader. You need a strong staff that comes in and remains."
Learn more about DPS turnaround funding and how it's related to strong school leadership here.
Thank you, school leaders. For all that you do for our teachers, students, and families!
Posted by Liz Weil
Credit to http://careers.dpsk12.org/schoohttp://careers.dpsk12.org/school-leaders/l-leaders/, http://www.denverpost.com/news/ci_29542156/many-colorado-schools-still-failing-after-years-millions