In an effort to expand professional development opportunities across the district particularly for aspiring school leaders the Woodbridge School District has launched a new assistant principal aspiring program titled Rising Blue Raiders.
The year-long initiative was created to support district employees who are interested in pursuing administrative roles by providing them with authentic, hands-on leadership experiences. The program is a collaborative effort between the Woodbridge School District and Dave Santore, a former Woodbridge administrator and the owner of Educational Leadership Services, LLC.
Together, Santore partnered with Kelley Kirkland, Assistant Superintendent and Brandon Snyder, Director of Curriculum and Instruction to design a comprehensive professional development program focused on leadership, instructional improvement, and administrative readiness.
Participants in the Rising Blue Raiders program engage in a wide range of professional learning opportunities centered on leading and improving schools. In addition to targeted professional development sessions, participants take part in real-world administrative experiences, including shadowing current Woodbridge administrators. The program also includes leadership projects and mock interviews that simulate the expectations and responsibilities administrators encounter when applying for and securing administrative positions.
“This program provides a valuable opportunity for staff members to gain a deeper understanding of what it truly means to be an administrator,” said Assistant Superintendent Kelley Kirkland. Director of Curriculum and Instruction Brandon Snyder adds, “It allows participants to begin thinking like an administrator while still serving in their current roles, which better prepares them for future leadership positions.”
The inaugural cohort of Rising Blue Raiders includes 13 district employees representing a wide range of experience levels and roles, including teachers, deans of students, and specialists. All participants either currently hold or are working toward administrative certification.
Kirkland emphasized the importance of the district’s partnership with Santore in supporting staff growth. “We are fortunate to work closely with Mr. Santore and the Delaware Department of Education to create these opportunities to serve our staff and help grow them as individuals,” she said.
Through the Rising Blue Raiders program, the Woodbridge School District continues its commitment to cultivating internal talent and strengthening leadership capacity for the future.