Frequently Asked Questions

Who are we looking for?

We are looking for experienced educators with a strong commitment to equity, academic achievement, and innovation, and a deep belief that systems must be reimagined to create the transformational change needed for students nationally.

Are there any eligibility requirements?

Successful candidates must demonstrate the following:

  • Track record of demonstrated, measurable positive impact on students

  • Clearly articulated vision and motivation for school systems leadership

  • Proven ability to lead and manage adults

Ideally, the applicant will be in a systems-level role of significant responsibility.

There is no minimum years of experience required. The average years of work experience for fellows is 14 years.    

How does the application process work?

There is a multi-stage selection process. Individuals who wish to be considered for admission should begin by submitting an application online. The initial application should take an estimated 15 minutes to complete.

The full application process includes the following steps:

  • Round 1: Application (15 min)

  • Round 2: One Way Interview (up to 60 min)

  • Round 3: Virtual Interview (45 min) and Performance Assessment (60 min)

  • Round 4: Reference Check (30 min)

  • Round 5: Final Selection at ASU+GSV Summit Selection Event or Virtual Interview

  • Round 6: Final Notification

Are there any costs associated with this program?

To participate in this year-long program, the cost is $15,000. Fellows are encouraged to secure manager approval for the program and seek sponsorship from their school systems. Systems can typically provide financial support through professional development funding. If managers and systems are notified early enough, most are open to making this investment in their talent. Other supports and additional coaching by external coaches can also be arranged for an additional cost.

When does the Fellowship start and end?

The Fellowship is a year-long commitment. The 2025 Cohort will begin in the summer of 2025 and concludes in summer 2026.

The learning experiences offered as part of the Fellowship are critical to the depth and breadth of Fellow development. As such, it is crucial and mandatory for all participants accepting a spot in the 2025-2026 cohort are available for and hold the following dates:

  • Learning Experience #1: July 14-18, 2025

  • Learning Experience #2: September 15-19, 2025 (in-person, location TBD)

  • Learning Experience #3: November 10-14, 2025

  • Learning Experience #4: January 19-23, 2026

  • Learning Experience #5: March 23-27, 2026

  • Learning Experience #6: June 15-19, 2026 (in-person, location TBD)

Where do fellows work?

Fellows work in districts, state education agencies, charter school networks, and education organizations nationally - ranging in size from a few hundred enrolled students to 1.1 million. A complete list of these state, district, and charter partners can be found here.

How many fellows will be admitted?

Our final applicant pool will determine the final size of the cohort. 

What is included in the Fellowship curriculum?

There are three primary areas of learning: innovative strategy, instructional excellence, and equity. As part of innovative strategy, fellows will use Cambiar’s CREATE framework to design an executable strategy to improve student achievement and instruction. Fellows will spend time understanding the key levers within instructional excellence necessary to make instructional impact within a system (e.g., what makes a high-quality curriculum, instructional standards). To build the skills necessary to transform school systems, fellows explore equity deeply, understanding how many different types of inequities are perpetuated through the public education system. All learning is always done through the lens of racial equity, in order to prioritize the need for systems to address the institutional racism that plagues the communities they serve. 

Who do I contact if I still have questions?

For all inquiries about the Fellowship, please email us.

If I’ve applied before, can I apply again?

Yes, if you have applied before, you are eligible to apply again. Should you have any questions about your candidacy, you are encouraged to email us.