Nassau County School District

NASSAU COUNTY, FL — Nassau County School District is investing in the future of its schools by launching the Aspiring Principals Academy — a new program designed to prepare today’s assistant principals to become tomorrow’s principals.

The year-long Academy will give assistant principals across the district the opportunity to grow as leaders through hands-on learning, mentorship, and collaboration. Each participant will build a digital leadership portfolio, showcasing their growth and readiness to lead a school of their own.

This program is guided by the Florida Educational Leadership Standards, which outline the skills and qualities that make school leaders effective — from setting a strong vision and mission to creating safe schools, supporting student learning, engaging families, and building positive school culture.

What makes the Aspiring Principals Academy unique is that it was shaped directly by the voices of Nassau County’s assistant principals. Before the Academy began, every assistant principal completed a survey to share the areas where they wanted to grow most. Those results determined the Academy’s sessions and learning topics, ensuring the program is meaningful and relevant.

Participants will also learn from current principals, take part in panel discussions, and receive mentorship and coaching from some of Nassau County’s most successful school leaders.

“This Academy is about more than preparing principals — it’s about building a strong leadership pipeline to keep Nassau County schools among the very best in Florida,” said Dr. Kathy Knight Burns, Superintendent of Schools. “We are proud to invest in our assistant principals and excited to see the positive impact they will continue to make for students, teachers, and families.”

By strengthening leadership skills, encouraging collaboration, and fostering innovation, the Aspiring Principals Academy is another way Nassau County School District is ensuring its tradition of excellence continues for years to come.