Leading the Way in Leadership Development

Strong schools are built by strong educators. That’s why the Sheboygan Area School District continues to invest in developing teachers and school leaders from within.

Over the last 10 years, SASD has made a strong investment in teacher professional growth through our on-site, staff-led Teacher Development Institute. This two-year program supports educators as they participate in coursework aligned with district priorities and conduct a research project. To date, more than 160 educators have completed or are currently participating in the program, helping build leadership capacity across the district.

In future years, the program will expand to include a longer, more in-depth action research phase. This work will conclude with an annual Leadership Research Presentation Night, where participants share their findings. The research can then be implemented districtwide to strengthen teaching practices, respond to student needs, and improve learning outcomes in classrooms across SASD.

The Teacher Development Institute is offered in partnership with Lakeland University. SASD staff members who teach the courses are also adjunct instructors at Lakeland. Teachers who complete the Teacher Development Institute earn 18 credits toward a master’s degree, with an option to continue at Lakeland University to complete the degree - all at no cost to the teacher.

Building on this success, SASD launched a Principal Development Institute last school year to prepare future school leaders. Participants are selected for their commitment to instructional excellence, student success, and collaborative leadership. The inaugural cohort includes three staff members who will engage in professional learning, mentorship, and job-embedded leadership experiences.

By growing leaders internally, the district is investing wisely in its people—strengthening schools, supporting students, and building a strong future for the entire community.