Killeen ISD is launching two new leadership academies for current employees, creating intentional pathways for teachers and assistant principals to strengthen their skills and prepare for future leadership roles within the district.
The Emergent Leaders Academy is designed for current KISD teachers who want to grow as teacher leaders or explore future opportunities in instructional coaching or campus leadership.
The ASPIRE Principal Academy is designed for current assistant principals who are preparing to take the next step toward becoming campus principals.
“Leadership development should not begin when a position opens. It should be intentional and ongoing,” Dr. Rachelle Ysquierdo, Director of Leadership Development, said. “These academies create intentional pathways for employees to build their skills and prepare for the next step in their careers. We want our people to know they can grow their careers right here in Killeen ISD, and we want to be deliberate about developing the leaders who are already serving our students every day.”
Both academies will provide participants with targeted professional learning and practical leadership experiences designed to help them grow in their current roles while preparing for future opportunities.
Applications are due September 24, 2026. Applicants will be notified October 1, and both academies will begin October 7.
Current Killeen ISD employees can learn more about eligibility, program expectations and how to apply at www.killeenisd.org/grow.
The district is starting with these two pathways during the 2026-2027 school year and plans to continue growing the program with the addition of the ASPIRE Assistant Principal Pathway and the Executive Leadership Academy. Together, the pathways will support aspiring leaders at multiple stages of their careers, from instructional leadership to the assistant principal role, from assistant principal to principal, and from the principalship into district-level leadership positions.