Leadership Development

View FCS' Leader Profile. Programs include:

 

•  The FCS LEAD Academy, formerly known as FCS Aspiring Leaders, is a year-long, cohort-based professional learning experience designed for certified staff who have demonstrated leadership potential and have a desire to build on those skills and abilities, with hopes of expanding their influence.  The program's focus will center on the tenets of the FCS Leader Profile, with participants also learning from educational leaders from within our school system.  The program is comprised of nine learning sessions and runs September through June, with each session requiring day-long participation (9:00 am - 4:00 pm).  The costs of substitute teachers will be covered by the district.
• Contact: Terri North
• Learn more about LEAD
• FAQ's about LEAD Academy
• LEAD Academy Application 

Aspiring Principal Program Cohort 8 Application

The Aspiring Principal Program was established in 2018 using the Forsyth County Leader Profile, to identify and develop leaders who are equipped to meet the needs of Forsyth County students, teachers, and communities. The purpose of the Aspiring Principal Program is to ensure the district has a ready pool of candidates for the principal role who demonstrate the experience, confidence and character required to become highly effective leaders in our schools. Assistant Principals who have Tier II certification or will have it completed by summer of 2026 AND are currently in their fourth or higher year of service (3 full years of experience at the time of application) in the Assistant Principal role, are eligible to apply.

Completed applications and all required attachments are due no later than January 5, 2026. Interviews will be conducted January 15 and 16. Please do not hesitate to reach out to Sherri Black for questions at sblack@forsyth.k12.ga.us.

Aspiring Principals Application

 

• A series of workshops facilitated by the Chief of Staff and district office leaders to prepare incoming Board-appointed Principals for their transition to actual Principals.  
• Contact:  Josh Lowe

• The Aspiring Athletic Directors Cohort program is a comprehensive and immersive experience designed to equip aspiring athletic directors with the skills, knowledge, and network necessary to excel in the dynamic field of athletics. This program is tailored for individuals who are passionate about leading an athletic program while adhering to the rules and regulations of Forsyth County Schools and the Georgia High School Association. The program is comprised of eight learning sessions and runs September through April, with each session requiring day-long participation (8:30 am - 3:00 pm).  The cost of the program is $200.
• Contact: Nathan Turner
• LEAD Aspiring Athletic Director Application
• LEAD Aspiring Athletic Director Recommendations
• FAQs About Aspiring Athletic Director Program

 

• For classified staff members currently in leadership roles those that seek advancement opportunities at the school and district levels. 
• Candidates must be recommended by their principals, supervisors or district leaders.
• Contact:  Joey Pirkle 

---

Development opportunities for practicing leaders include:

New Administrators

• To support new administrators, FCS works on building relationships, knowledge of work, and character and integrity. 

Summer Leadership

• Leadership Retreat for assistant principals, principals and Central Office administrators.
• Back to School Summit for school and district leaders.

Practicing Leaders

• To support new administrators, FCS works on building relationships, knowledge of work, and character and integrity. The AP+ Plus Program is for assistant principals who have graduated from Aspiring Principals.

For more staff development opportunities in FCS, see Teacher Induction, Professional Learning and other programs within the District Departments.  

---

For more information contact Josh Lowe.