About Leadership U

Next Cohort begins
July 2026

Leadership U

At ACSI, we believe the best way to strengthen schools and equip educators is by developing leadership capacity in our Christian schools. Research indicates that “great schools do not exist apart from great leaders.”

ACSI Leadership U is a comprehensive program for potential, new and emerging school leaders among all grade levels in your school. In addition, the program provides support and learning experiences for Early Education leaders, principals, and new heads of school. With 11 months of mentoring, and two on-site sessions as bookends, this program equips the next generation of Christian school leaders for the challenges and blessings of leading a flourishing Christian school. We will begin accepting applications August 2025 for the 2026-2027 cohort. If you would like to speak with a staff member about Leadership U, please contact the Professional Development Department at Leadership_University@acsi.org.

 

Become a Scholar
Applications for the 2026-2027 cohort will open August 2025.


Become a Mentor
Applications for the 2026-2027 cohort will open August 2025.

Receive Top-Notch Training
Your experience begins and ends with weeklong residencies. Study administration, governance, research, advancement, and best practices and emerge with a plan you can start implementing right away.
Grow with Veteran Mentors
Get step-by-step guidance in implementing your plan from an experienced school leader, who will check in on your progress regularly throughout the year.
Thrive in Community
You'll grow alongside fellow students who share your passion to lead with skill and integrity, building relationships that will remain important long after classes are over.
Testimonials

“ACSI’s Leadership U was an incredible growth experience for me as a new head of school. The large group sessions provided relevant topics from leading educational professionals, and the peer collaboration allowed me to engage with others in my field. However, the most meaningful aspect of the program was the mentorship experience. My mentor provided a wealth of professional knowledge as well as Godly leadership, wisdom, prayer, and friendship along this journey. I am better equipped for the ministry of Christian school leadership as a result of Leadership U.”

Deena Ruff
Head of School
Perry Hall Christian School

lRUFF, Deena (photo)

 

matt-gaines"Leadership U is the best professional development program I've participated in. I am already seeing the impact at my school. It's amazing!"

Matt Gaines
Director
South Maryland Christian Academy

"I found the entire week to be extremely beneficial. I learned so much from all the interactions with the mentors and other participants. It was truly one of the best weeks."

Dora Miller
Principal/Lead Administrator
Western Oklahoma Christian School

"[Leadership U is] perfect for anyone in a leadership role at a Christian school, regardless of your professional background. It will prepare you for opportunities and challenges that are unique to a Christian school setting. [It gave] me completely new perspectives on leadership."

Celeste Sprankle
Instructor
Johnstown Christian School

    2026 - 2027 Program Details 

    The program spans 11 months and is currently in progress.  The 2026-2027 Leadership U program is set at $8,850 USA Member, to be paid in three $2,950 installments. Lodging is included, but travel costs to and from sessions are not included in the tuition rate. A new, private group in ACSI’s online Community will host dialogue between program participants and mentors throughout the 11-month program. 

    Program Timelines

    • LU Introduction & Welcome – July 2026
    • LU Virtual Launch – August 2026
    • LU/FSi – February 2027 | Location TBD
    • LU Graduation Plano, TX – May 4-6, 2027 | Drury Plaza Hotel Dallas Richardson 

    Financial Commitment

    • Cost: USA Member Schools *$8,850 (paid in 3 installments)
    • Cost: USA Non-Member Schools *$9,450 (paid in 3 installments)
    • Cost: International Member Schools $10,850 (paid in 3 installments)
    • Cost: International Non-Member Schools $11,850 (paid in 3 installments)
    • Travel Costs to Sessions 1 and 3 paid by participant
    • Lodging and Meals at Sessions 1 and 3 included in the Program
    • Mentor onsite visit covered with tuition

      * LU Scholars from Hawaii or Alaska will have slightly higher program cost. Reach out to us for more details.

    Title II-A Funding may cover program costs. For details, please refer to Funding Your Professional Development.

     

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    Cedarville University