FOR IMMEDIATE RELEASE
Sept. 12, 2008
Contact: Anika Mitchell Perkins
(662) 329-7124
aperkins@pa.muw.edu

Master’s program prepares teachers for leadership roles

COLUMBUS, Miss. - Already known for its success in preparing teachers, Mississippi University for Women will eventually be known for preparing educators as leaders.

The master’s degree program in educational leadership is in keeping with the mission of MUW and fulfilling a need, according to Dr. Sue Jolly, chair of the Department of Education.

“A shortage of well-prepared, qualified school administrators exists both in Mississippi and in the nation, ” she said. “The program seeks outstanding teachers who have potential to lead schools. The program prepares them for the next step. While the emphasis is on school leadership, the program examines all aspects of leadership and would prepare an individual for a leadership role in virtually any organization.”

Jolly said the program is designed to align with national standards in the field and with all Mississippi guidelines.

“Extensive research related to best practice was reviewed in determining the design which is cutting edge. Much of this research was incorporated into the design of the program,” she added.

Factors that make the program unique include a rigorous selection process; a curriculum that emphasizes instructional leadership, gender issues of leadership and moral, ethical decision making and strong integration of theory and practice.

Candidates are expected to gain a better understanding of themselves as professionals and as effective teachers, Jolly explained. They will be equipped with skills needed to effectively lead a school.

“As we began our initial work for the establishment of the program, we found a number of MUW graduates who have gone on to complete graduate degrees elsewhere and then serve as principals and school district administrators,” she said. “An effective school leader is an effective teacher first. We are already preparing effective teachers. This is an important and logical next step.”

The first cohort was admitted in the fall, according to Jolly, who said they anticipate acceptance of applications for the second group in the spring of 2009 with their study to begin in June 2009.

For more information about the program, call (662) 329-7191.