top of page
Hero_Fulcrum.png

LAUNCHPAD

Empowering Leaders to Build and Sustain Exceptional Schools

LaunchPad advances resilient executive leadership capacity by collaborating with school leaders, authorizers, and governing entities

Focused Guidance

Customized support for school founders and established leaders to bring their visions to life and build thriving school communities

Sustainable Solutions

Resilient systems creation aligned with the community’s mission, vision, values, and needs, to ensure long-term success

Collaborative Partnerships

Bridge-building to foster innovation, equity, and collaboration among school leaders, authorizers, and governing entities

What is LeveragED LaunchPad?

LeveragED LaunchPad is a leadership development program designed to support education leaders in creating and sustaining innovative school models while growing their leadership capacity. Whether you are serving as a principal or an executive director, LaunchPad provides the resources, guidance, and strategic support needed to strengthen your leadership and ensure your school can thrive over time.

Screenshot 2026-02-18 at 10.22_edited.jp

PARTNERS

Interested in Applying? Applications for the LeveragED LaunchPad Program are available exclusively through our 2026-2027 partner organizations.

Group 69.png
NY_CT when together - Northeast Charter
Group 70.png
Georgia - GA Charter Schools Association_edited.png
Group 73.png
Ohio and Michigan - National Charter Schools Institute.webp
Group 74.png
Utah - USCSB - Utah State Charter School Board.png
Group 71.png
2026 Cohort Experience Announcement Graphic.png
Group 72.png
NY_CT when together - Northeast Charter
Group 75.png
Florida - FL Charter Institute.webp
Group 76.png
Ohio and Michigan - National Charter Schools Institute.webp

For inquiries and questions about LaunchPad, email launchpad@leveragedfoundation.org

“It creates a sense of partnership and camaraderie because you have someone that you can lean on.”
 

Dr. Charcia Nichols

2025 Launchpad Leader, GA

The Leadership Development Cohort

(2026-2027 Leadership Development Cohort Begins in August)

This cohort supports new and experienced principals, as well as executive leaders who want to strengthen their leadership across seven key competencies:

Performance Management

Instructional Management

Systems Management

Adaptive Implementation

Relational Trust and Influence

Strategic Clarity

Systems-Level Problem Solving

HGSE Logo.webp
HBS Logo.webp

HBX Online Courses Integration

Accepted leaders will have the opportunity to engage in a Harvard Certificate in School Management and Leadership (CSML) course, a collaboration between the Harvard Graduate School of Education and Harvard Business School that is designed to integrate education and business frameworks. This facilitated experience provides participants with innovative leadership strategies grounded in research and actionable insights on leading change, managing people, and driving school improvement.

LaunchPad Workshop.webp
2024.10 - NACSACON - Richard and Nandi.webp
LaunchPad Site Visit.webp

LaunchPad Leadership Development Cohort FAQs

What is the time commitment for the LeveragED LaunchPad Leadership Development Cohort?

Participants should expect to dedicate 15-20 hours per month for assignments, reflections, and planning. Additionally, participants engage in coaching sessions (in-person and virtual) and site visits throughout the program year.

If I am unable to attend all sessions, should I still apply?

No. Participants must be able to fully participate in all program components, including virtual sessions, in-person convenings, workshops, and site visits. The program is designed as a connected experience, and each component plays a critical role in building the skills, relationships, and leadership capacity participants are expected to develop. Full participation in all aspects of this program is required.

What are the key dates?

  • Informational Webinars: March 19 & March 30, 2026

  • Application & Interview Window: April 1 - May 6, 2026

  • Decision Notification: May 8, 2026

 When does the program begin?

  • Cohort Welcome Call: May 28, 2026 (5pm EST)

  • Virtual Coaching: Begins August, 2026 

  • In-Person Convening in Atlanta, GA: September 22-25, 2026

  • Virtual Workshop Series: November 2026 - January 2027

  • Harvard Online Course & Virtual Debriefs: February - March 2027

  • Cohort Closing: May 2027

  • Site Visits: Scheduled individually throughout the program year

What virtual sessions are included in the program?

The program includes:

  • Virtual Coaching Sessions: Structured small group or 1:1 coaching for personalized support and feedback on leadership approaches and challenges

  • Office Hours: Ongoing support with an experienced leader through facilitated discussions on pressing issues

  • Virtual Workshops: Skill-building, case studies, and interactive discussions mirror the in-person experience

​

February - March Harvard Online Course that includes essential leadership and management topics, with debriefs held in facilitated virtual sessions to integrate learning into practice

What is the purpose of the in-person workshops, virtual workshops, and site visits?

  • In-person Workshops provide opportunities for hands-on learning, collaborative problem-solving, and regional networking, allowing for deeper exploration.

  • Virtual Workshops focus on interactive discussions, case studies, and real-time application exercises, providing flexibility while maintaining high engagement.

  • Site Visits offer on-the-ground support to observe school operations and provide real-time, tailored feedback on leadership and school systems.

bottom of page