A Strategic Decision

Given our commitment to improving student outcomes and the ongoing uncertainty due to COVID-19, we made the strategic decision to postpone selection of our seventh cohort and focus our full investment and efforts on supporting our first six cohorts of Neubauer Fellows and participants in our other programs. We will devote our full resources to all leaders currently engaged with us and focus on the critical work of cultivating staffs and cultures to elevate school performance and drive student success. Selection of the next Neubauer Fellowship cohort will occur in Spring 2022.  If you have any questions, please contact Sharifa Edwards, Program Director, via email.

See below for more information about the Neubauer Fellowship selection process.

Learn More about the Neubauer Fellowship

Eligibility: Applicants must be principals serving students in Philadelphia’s district, charter, or faith-based schools. Candidates must have at least one year of experience as a principal prior to their Fellowship year.

Selection Criteria: The selection process gathers evidence about each applicant’s ability to:

• Articulate a clear and compelling school-wide vision and execute leadership actions that align with that vision
• Hold self and others accountable for improving student outcomes based on a belief that all children can achieve at high levels
• Establish an achievement-oriented school culture grounded in high expectations for all students and adults
• Create a respectful, safe, supportive, and inclusive environment for all students
• Identify and implement exemplary instructional practices
• Build capacity of teachers and staff to provide rigorous instruction for all students
• Use data and effective practices to inform decision-making
• Lead with a solutions-orientation and persistence to overcome obstacles
• Identify problems, prioritize, and implement effective solutions
• Effectively communicate, collaborate, and build relationships with diverse stakeholders
• Demonstrate self-awareness, a commitment to ongoing learning, and a continuous improvement mindset
• Demonstrate a deep commitment to Philadelphia’s schools and students

Selection Process:  In order to ensure that candidates have ample opportunities to demonstrate their skills, knowledge, and mindsets, School Leaders developed a multi-stage and varied set of activities for the selection process, each one designed to gather evidence in specific areas. Click here to learn more

Participant Commitment: Successful candidates must commit to full participation in the two-year program, including the entire Summer Institute, monthly leadership development experiences during first year, and quarterly opportunities during the second year. Candidates must also commit to remain as a school or school system leader in Philadelphia for at least three years.