Central & Network Offices

Lead Citywide is CPS’ strategy for professional, career and leadership development services for Central and Network Office team members.
Lead Citywide is building leaders within CPS Central and Network Offices through a robust set of professional growth experiences. This new initiative is an investment in the development of CPS staff, offering free professional learning opportunities (and credits) to all team members, from emerging staff to the c-suite, through a variety of learning formats: in-person, virtually and online.

Explore current programs and opportunities below:

Our tiered approach is a curated set of cohorts, programs, and learning opportunities designed to build leadership effectiveness for all levels of CPS Central and Network Office staff. Interested in participating? Talk to your manager today. Note: Participation is currently limited as this new program scales up to serve all Central/Network Office staff. More space and cohort experiences will be offered throughout 2023 and 2024.

Tier 1

All Central Office/Network Team Members

  • In-person and online training including on-the-job training, online courses, professional development opportunities, LinkedIn Learning access, Lunch and Learn events, and career planning.
  • Professional Development SY2024 Catalog (see below)
  • LinkedIn Learning Online Classes and Resources- Instructions to access the platform
Tier 2

Managers and Directors (typically pay grades S08-S10)

Cohort experiences that teach specific skills to support operational leaders.

  • Professional Development SY2024 Catalog (see below)
  • Take the Lead – Director Cohort
  • LEAP (Leadership Essentials, Actions and Practices)- New Leader Cohort- Registration opens late summer 2024
Tier 3

Directors, Executive Directors and Above (typically pay grades S11 Above)

  • Professional Development SY2024 Catalog – (see below)
  • Center for Effective Government (CEG)- Coming in winter/spring 2024
  • LinkedIn Learning Online Classes and Resources- Instructions to access the platform

Fall 2023 Courses available for all Central and Network Office employees:

You can also explore the tabs below for LinkedIn Learning, External Partnerships and Programs, and Self-Paced Resources.

A robust list of learning opportunities in-person, virtual and e-learning that take place each year. 

Fall Courses:

Spring Courses:

Spring Cohort Experiences:

You can also explore the tabs below for LinkedIn Learning, External Partnerships and Programs, and Self-Paced Resources.

Fall Courses:

Spring Courses:

You can also explore the tabs below for LinkedIn Learning, External Partnerships and Programs, and Self-Paced Resources.

LinkedIn Learning is a premier online learning provider offering thousands of free video courses taught by industry experts in software, creative, and business skills. CPS Central Office and Network Employees have free access to the platform.

What would you like to learn today? Whether you want to brush up on your Project Management skills, prepare for a presentation, learn how to engage your teams or update your resume and sharpen your interviewing skills, LinkedIn Learning can help you get there.

Check out our new 2023 Playlists. Learn more and get started through the Job Aid to Access Portal.

Need a hand? Send us an email at leaderdevelopment@cps.edu we can consult with you to build a playlist that is customized for your development, or to help you play an active role in developing your employees’ leadership.

While we are proud of our new and expanded investments in professional development offered through CPS, we also have long-standing partnerships with leading external institutions to help grow your professional skillsets and connections. These programs have recently expanded eligibility, making it easier to participate. Plus, staff can apply for sponsorships to fund your participation.

Explore these programs below to find one that’s a great fit for you.

CPS program partners include:

Sponsorships are available, but to be considered for funding, your sponsorship request must be received internally before your external application is submitted.

Questions? Send us an email at leaderdevelopment@cps.edu

Included below are additional resources to explore and access at your own pace:
  • Book Reads: Shopping for a great leadership book or wondering what CPS’ top leaders are reading? Visit our Book Recommendations every month to see what’s new!
  • Free Self Assessments: A variety of online assessments are available to staff for free. To gain a better understanding of yourself, your strengths and skills, take more than one and compare results.
  • Plus, explore additional opportunities (programs, fellowships, mentorships, and more) offered through the Opportunity cards below.
ORGANIZATIONChicago United for Equity

Chicago United for Equity Fellows

A nine-month program where participants design and implement equity-based projects with an organization of their choice.
DURATIONNine months
APPLICATION WINDOW

April 2023 TBD

EligibilityApplicants are required to name an organization that will serve as a partner in developing and implementing their equity project. Must have a pre-existing relationship with the organization.
LEARN MORE
ORGANIZATIONCPS – DPQ/School Leader Pipeline

Chicago Leadership Collaborative: Principal Residency – Pathway 3

The CLC Pathway 3 provides a rigorous, year-long leadership practice experience that engages highly experienced and near ready aspiring principals in authentic, real-time experiences designed to accelerate the participant’s exposure to learning opportunities essential to the role of Chicago Public Schools (CPS) principal. TIMELINE TO SCHOOL LEADER ROLE (after program): Immediately following program completion Ready for: PRINCIPAL
DURATIONOne full school year (July – June)
APPLICATION WINDOW

March-April 2024

Invite through principal prep partners only (otherwise mark interest)

Eligibility– 2+ years Assistant Principal or district leader experience preferred (non-principal); – 5+ years teaching/in-school experience; – 2+ years leading at least one teacher team to impact school goals; – IL Principal endorsement preferred or earned by end of program; – Active ISBE PEL (Professional Educator License) or Educator License with Stipulations (out of state) required.
LEARN MORE
ORGANIZATIONCPS – DPQ/School Leader Pipeline

Chicago Leadership Collaborative Pathway 3: Mentor Principal

Chicago Leadership Collaborative (CLC) Mentor Principals work directly with Resident Principals on the day-to-day activities and responsibilities associated with the principal’s role as school leader. The Mentor role provides an extraordinary opportunity for successful, experienced principals to gain advanced leadership skills as they develop the abilities of aspiring principals. Mentoring creates a unique relationship that requires commitment, development and training.
DURATIONOne full school year (July – June)
APPLICATION WINDOW

March – April 2024

Eligibility– At least three years as a CPS district principal; – Improved Student Outcomes* for the last 2 years (SY23, SY24 to date) *as determined by the applicant with supporting evidence; – Approval of Network Chief to mentor an aspiring principal; – Must agree to actively and thoughtfully engage the Resident Principal in: Instructional activities that involve teachers at all grade levels and from diverse populations, The hiring process through direct observation or participation, The observation and evaluation of teachers, using REACH, as well as the observation of other certified and non-certified staff; – Opportunity for principals who have not served as a CLC Mentor Principal consecutively in the last two school years
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ORGANIZATIONBonfire

Bonfire Signature Program

Bonfire's Signature Program is a talent development accelerator that supports and trains 50 women in a six-month program, to help them grow their leadership skills and build the pipeline of women leaders in the City of Chicago.
DURATIONSix months
APPLICATION WINDOW

Applications are currently closed. Click here to be notified when the next cohort application window opens for CPS in summer 2024

EligibilityWomen-identifying leaders of all ages who are rising talent with demonstrated potential for extraordinary leadership in the workplace of the future.
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ORGANIZATIONThe Broad Center

Associate Broad Residents

Two year cohort based fellowship to provide fellows the leadership skills necessary to create positive change in urban public school systems.
DURATIONTwo years
APPLICATION WINDOW

August 2020 – January 2021

LEARN MORE
ORGANIZATIONUIC Urban Education Leadership Program & Teach For America

Aspire Fellowship

A fellowship that supports teachers of color in gaining the skills and confidence necessary for school leadership. Fellows demonstrate a commitment to service and leadership in urban education.
DURATION10 months
APPLICATION WINDOW

Applications accepted through June 1, 2023. See website to register for an upcoming informational session.

EligibilityIL licensed Teacher* or Teacher Leader with 3+ years of classroom teaching experience who envisions a future where they are leading a public school in Chicago
LEARN MORE
ORGANIZATIONCPS – DPQ/School Leader Pipeline

Tier 2 – Aspiring Assistant Principal Institute (AAPI T2)

The Aspiring Assistant Principal Institute (AAPI) Tier 2 is a year-long professional development program aimed at preparing aspiring assistant principals (teacher leaders, school counselors and other staff) who have completed Tier 1, with knowledge and tools to be an effective team leader in their current and aspiring assistant principal roles. Tier 2 Focus: Building leadership skills through coaching others Leading teams to influence change Understanding the systems and practices of school leadership Themes: Growing your leadership potential Leading others
DURATION6-8 sessions over the course of the school year
APPLICATION WINDOW

March – April 2024

EligibilityThe following are pre-requisites to applying for the AAPI Tier 2 program: – successful completion of AAPI Tier 1 (within the last 3 years) – possess an active Illinois State Board of Education PEL AND Administrative Endorsement (or Type 75) – access to lead teacher teams in current role – desire and commitment to become a CPS assistant principal within the next 2-3 years – approval of current principal (supervisor) to participate
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ORGANIZATIONChicago Public Schools Department of Arts Education

Arts Instruction Specialist

The Arts Instructional Specialist is an exemplary Art teacher with expert-level disciplinary knowledge who supports the development of Arts Education instruction.
DURATIONOne year
APPLICATION WINDOW

April 2023 – May 2023

EligibilityFull time Art Teacher.
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ORGANIZATIONChicago Public Schools Department of Arts Education

Arts Liaison

CPS Arts Liaisons serve as on-site arts leaders and champions in their school communities. They ensure students, educators, administrators and the broader nonprofit and philanthropic communities have access to vital arts-related information.
DURATIONOne year
APPLICATION WINDOW

Nominated by the school Administrator at the beginning of every school year

EligibilityNo experience is necessary, but candidates should have working knowledge of the Fine and Performing Arts needs in the school and have excellent communication skills.
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ORGANIZATIONU.S. Department of Energy

Albert Einstein Distinguished Educator Fellowship Program

Fellows work in a Federal agency or U.S. Congressional office to affect change in their specific area of interest related to STEM education.
DURATION11 months
APPLICATION WINDOW

Deadline May 2023

EligibilityMust have taught five of the last seven years in a STEM discipline, willing to relocate for the 11-month fellowship, and currently employed full-time in a public or private elementary or secondary school or school district in the U.S.
LEARN MORE
ORGANIZATIONChicago Foundation for Education

Action Research Leadership Institute Fellowship

Fellows conduct a self-designed research study in their own school to support and improve teacher practice.
DURATION1 year
APPLICATION WINDOW

Application will reopen Summer 2023

EligibilityAll PreK-12th grade Chicago Public School educators, including charter, magnet and selective enrollment schools
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Questions or need to get in touch?

Please email:

Chicago Public Schools
42 W. Madison St. Chicago, IL 60602
773-553-1000
LeadwithCPS@cps.edu

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