A Professional Development Program for District Leaders
The First Ring Leadership Academy (FRLA) is a year-long professional development and leadership training program for new and emerging leaders in the 16 districts contiguous to the Cleveland Metropolitan School District. Participants are nominated by their superintendents in the beginning of each school year to become part of the cohort. The FRLA provides participants with an expanded knowledge base and skill set foundation to prepare them to assume additional leadership roles within their districts and continue improving district and individual outcomes to serve all levels of students within Cuyahoga County.
The Academy meets for six sessions throughout the academic year with a focus on building leadership skills and district capacity to address the unique challenges of first ring, urban schools. Participants engage in a variety of learning activities including leadership trait analyses, case studies, readings and reflections. Sessions are held at either the ESC of Northeast Ohio or First Ring districts. The FRLA is a key “build from within” system of educational excellence and leadership development that supports and benefits the entire First Ring regional area.
2025-2026 SCHEDULE
October 22, 2025 (8:30-3:00)
Session 1 - ESC of Northeast Ohio
Orientation & Foundation for District Leaders
November 12, 2025 (8:30-3:00)
Session 2 - Shaker Heights City Schools
December 17, 2025 (8:30-3:00)
Session 3 - Warrensville Heights City Schools
January 21, 2026 (8:30-3:00)
Session 4 - Fairview Park City Schools
February 18, 2026 (8:30-3:00)
Session 5 - South Euclid Lyndhurst City Schools
March 18, 2026 (8:30-3:00)
Session 6 - Cuyahoga Heights Local Schools
May 4, 2026 (8:30-3:00)
Year End Presentations & Celebration
ESC of Northeast Ohio
First Ring Leadership Academy Yearbooks