NYSAIS ELI Frequently Asked Questions

Q: Who is eligible to apply?

A: Anyone from a NYSAIS member school with five or more years of experience in the field of education.

Q: Are all applicants accepted into the program?

A: That depends on who applies. We will build a small, strong cohort group of emerging leaders of promise from a variety of backgrounds and experiences. The cohort is limited to 20 participants.

Q: When will I find out if I’ve been admitted into the program?

A: The deadline for applications is January 15, 2017. Admissions decisions will be announced by March 1, 2017.

Q: What commitment must cohort members make to the program?

A: Emerging leaders make a two-year commitment to participate enthusiastically in all aspects of the program. This includes: three residential summer seminars, two residential conferences, one regional trustee governance workshop, one accreditation visit, a series of webinars, a mentor partnership and an on-line community with regular meetings.

Q: What is covered by the program fee?

A: The program fee covers the cost of entrance, room and board at all conferences, webinars and membership in the on-line community. Participants are responsible for the cost of transportation to and from sessions and several books.

Q: How is payment arranged?

A: Participants’ schools will be billed for the cost of the two-year program once participants have been accepted. A deposit is due by June 30, 2017. The remaining balance is due by August 15, 2017.

Q: I do not live in New York City. Where will all of these events take place?

A: Efforts have been made to schedule face-to-face meetings in central locations. By creating an on-line community and webinars on important topics, we will expand learning beyond the face to face.

Q: How is this program different from other leadership programs?

A: There are several outstanding leadership programs for independent school leaders. ELI is unique and has been created to enable emerging leaders to develop their capacity to lead in several ways. Participants will learn from facilitators, experienced independent school leaders, peers within their cohort group, an accreditation visit and their mentor.

Q: This seems like a big commitment. How will I fit it all in?

A: ELI has been created for busy professionals working on a full-time basis. Several of the residential components have been scheduled in August, individuals will be able to tailor the program to meet their own schedules and interests, and above all, the pace of the program will be manageable.

Q: Is this a degree program? Is it possible to receive academic credit for ELI?

A: Cohort members will receive a certificate of completion after meeting all program requirements. ELI is not currently affiliated with a credit-granting university.