Aspiring Superintendents Academy
TASA’s Aspiring Superintendents Academy is a must-attend for those who aspire to become superintendents. Held in conjunction with the TASA Midwinter Conference, the academy offers nearly 14 hours of content (over the course of the four-day conference) that focuses on both how to get the job and how to be successful in the job, plus attendees will hear from 25 sitting superintendents and representatives from 15 search firms.
About the Academy
Topics
During the Aspiring Superintendents Academy, you will cover:
- the calling of this work
- the path to the superintendency
- development of a résumé and entry plan
- interview preparation
- navigating search firms
- navigating superintendent contracts
- governance and board relations
- thriving in the first year
Format
With presentations, discussions, and Q&A sessions with both new and seasoned superintendents, presentations from the state’s leading search firms, along with hands-on activities around the content necessary for you to get and succeed in the job, an online repository of sample résumés, entry plans and résumé questions, the academy is poised to provide aspiring superintendents with a one-of-a-kind experience that includes nearly 14 hours of professional learning in preparation for the superintendency.
Academy Highlights
- Crash course on résumé development followed by a peer-reviewed résumé activity
- Live, on-stage job interview with a superintendent and a feedback/coaching session
- Built-in time for 1:1 discussions with the major search firms
- Expertise from 45 speakers, including 15 search firms and 25 sitting superintendents
2026 Featured Speakers
- Jaime Clark, Henrietta ISD Superintendent
- Holly Ferguson, Prosper ISD Superintendent
- Matthew Gutierrez, Del Valle ISD Superintendent
- Darryl Henson, Hitchcock ISD Superintendent
- Tory Hill, Channelview ISD Superintendent
- Nicole Poenitzsch, Bellville ISD Superintendent
- Tiffany Spicer, Waco ISD Superintendent
2026 Panelists
- Chris Moran, San Angelo ISD Superintendent, TASA President
- Roosevelt Nivens, Lamar CISD Superintendent, TASA President-Elect
- Jeannie Meza-Chavez, San Elizario ISD Superintendent, TASA Vice President
- Martha Salazar-Zamora, Tomball ISD Superintendent, TASA Past President
- Brandon Enos, Gunter ISD Superintendent
- Carnelius Gilder, West Sabine ISD Superintendent
- Garrett Luft, Ira ISD Superintendent
- Georgeanne Warnock, Terrell ISD Superintendent
- Jamie Robinson, Karnes City ISD Superintendent
- Jeff Pack, Livingston ISD Superintendent
- Jerry Hollingsworth, Eagle Mountain-Saginaw ISD Superintendent
- Julia Stephen, New Home ISD Superintendent
- Luz Martinez, Kingsville ISD Superintendent
- Mark Ruffin, Montgomery ISD Superintendent
- Megan Pape, Royal ISD Superintendent
- Michelle McCord, Frenship ISD Superintendent
- Michelle Rinehart, Alpine ISD Superintendent
- Molley Perry, Smithville ISD Superintendent
- Roland Toscano, East Central ISD Superintendent
- Travis Fanning, Beeville ISD Superintendent
- Travis Young, Dayton ISD Superintendent
Photo Gallery – 2025 Academy
Academy Leader
Jill Siler
Jill Siler served as the superintendent of Gunter ISD from 2012 to 2021, when she joined the full-time TASA staff as deputy executive director, professional learning.
Prior to joining the TASA staff, she chaired TASA’s Future-Ready Superintendent Leadership Network (FRSLN) Design Team, which brings together innovative leaders from across the state to learn, share, and grow together. She was also a member of the TASA 2025 Task Force, which helped launch the redesign of this academy.
Jill has a passion for helping others reach their goals and has been a frequent speaker at TASA’s Aspiring Superintendent Academy and First-Time Superintendents Academy, as well as the Texas Council of Women School Executives (TCWSE) Annual Conference and other leadership conferences.
She published her first book in 2020, focused on thriving through the most difficult moments of leadership. Her writing and other resources helpful to aspiring leaders can be found at jillmsiler.com.
What They’re Saying About the Aspiring Superintendents Academy
The Aspiring Superintendents Academy has been such a remarkable leadership experience. Greatness has been intentionally poured into us by the most remarkable leaders in Texas. I’m so grateful for this amazing learning experience. This academy has equipped me with the knowledge and skills needed to be the purpose-driven leader ready to take on the superintendency with excellence. Thank you, TASA!
I attended the TASA Aspiring Superintendents Academy in January 2025. Although I was excited and eager about the possibility of applying for superintendent jobs, I was hesitant. The training, mentorship, and encouragement received at the event encouraged and equipped me with everything I needed to confidently apply. Now I am attending the TASA First-Time Superintendents Academy and being poured into in ways I never thought possible. TASA is a first-class organization that goes beyond the meetings and events — their team and members provide real support, personal encouragement, and ensure every Texas school administrator is armed with the tools and tips to successfully and boldly lead in public education.
The superintendency doesn’t have to be a lonely place with a network as strong and supportive as TASA. I went from attending the Aspiring Superintendents Academy to accepting my first superintendent position and attending the First-Time Superintendents Academy in six months. The professional development TASA offers is timely, relevant, inspirational, and thought-provoking. Mentorship through the Executive Coaching program has also provided support to navigate the complex and challenging demands of this work. There are many organizations that support growth in the education profession, and none better than TASA!
TASA’s Aspiring Superintendents Academy was a turning point for me. It inspired a deep realization that I am not only ready to lead, but that I possess the vision, strength, and skill set to become a truly impactful superintendent. Through this journey, I’ve had the privilege of learning from some of the most inspiring and effective leaders in our state, and their example has fueled my desire to rise to their level — to lead with purpose, integrity, and heart. This experience affirmed that I have what it takes to guide others, to make meaningful change, and that the time to step forward is now.
Attending the Aspiring Superintendents Academy was impactful. The personal experiences shared by panelists — stories of courage, resilience, and unwavering belief in students — deeply resonated with me. Their authenticity and wisdom offered both practical insight and powerful affirmation that leadership rooted in integrity and vision truly makes a difference. TASA has reminded me that leadership isn’t about a title; it’s about relationships, influence, and the courage to advocate for what’s best for students. The Academy reignited my desire to remain a change-maker in this field and to contribute meaningfully to the future of public education.
The Aspiring Superintendents Academy was a transformative experience. The comprehensive curriculum offered insights into the complexities of district leadership that simply cannot be gained elsewhere. Through powerful sessions led by veteran superintendents, I developed a deeper understanding of strategic planning and how it relates to your goals, the network TASA provides to administrators, and the overwhelming support system that comes with that network!
2026 Aspiring Superintendents Academy Sponsors
CPE Hours
The Aspiring Superintendents Academy offers nearly 14 hours of Continuing Professional Education credit.
Questions?
Maria Cruz
Coordinator,
Learning & Events
512.477.6361
