AI Leadership Academy

When does the AI Leadership Academy start and end?

The 2025-2026 cohort runs from November 6, 2025 – May 2026. Sessions are held on the first Thursday of each month with flexible timing options to accommodate diverse schedules.

What does the monthly schedule look like?

• Live Virtual Sessions: First Thursday of each month (times vary by session)

• Independent Activities: 8 hours of self-paced work between sessions

• Cohort Collaboration: 5 hours of peer feedback and community engagement

• Total Time Commitment: Approximately 15 hours per month

What if I can’t make a monthly session?

All sessions are recorded and shared with the cohort. While live participation enhances the collaborative experience and allows for real-time Q&A, we understand the demands on educational leaders. Recordings are available within 24 hours, and you can engage with session content asynchronously through our community platform.

Do I need to be in a formal leadership position?

Absolutely not! AILA is designed for educators who want to lead from wherever they are—whether that’s the classroom, site, or system level. We welcome classroom teachers ready to champion AI integration, department chairs, instructional coaches, technology coordinators, administrators, and any educator seeking to lead through strategy, not just tools.

I’m new to AI. Will I be overwhelmed?

Not at all! The academy is designed as a progressive journey that begins with foundational AI literacy and builds toward advanced leadership strategies. You’ll start with core concepts and practical tools, learn alongside peers at various experience levels, receive expert facilitation and support, and apply learning at your own pace and context.

How much does the AI Leadership Academy cost?

• Non-Members: $750

• CALIE Members: $525 (30% discount)This includes the 7-month academy program, expert facilitation, recognition at Spring CUE 2026, and ongoing community access. University credit through USD is available for an additional cost.

Can my district pay for this?

Yes! Many participants have districts cover the cost through professional development budgets, leadership development funds, or innovation initiative budgets. We can provide formal invoices, justification letters, and documentation of graduate credit eligibility.

How much time will this really require?

The program requires approximately 15 hours per month, broken down into: 1.5 hours for the live monthly session, 8 hours of independent work spread throughout the month, and 5 hours of collaboration and peer feedback. This translates to roughly 3-4 hours per week, which you can integrate into your existing practice.

What does ‘independent activity’ mean?

Independent activities are practical, job-embedded tasks where you explore and implement AI tools in your context, develop resources for your team or students, create portfolio artifacts, apply frameworks to solve real problems, and build your AI leadership toolkit. These aren’t busywork—they’re designed to directly improve your practice.

What is the portfolio requirement?

Your portfolio is a dynamic showcase of your AI leadership journey, including a strategic plan for AI implementation, collection of AI use cases, evidence of stakeholder engagement, reflection on growth, and resources created for your educational community. The portfolio is developed incrementally throughout the program.

How do I earn the 8 graduate-level units?

University credit through USD requires full participation, completion of additional readings and reflections, development of a comprehensive portfolio, and separate registration with USD (approximately $79 per unit). Credit is optional—you can fully participate without pursuing units.

What AI tools will we be using?

The academy explores a comprehensive toolkit including generative AI (ChatGPT, Claude, Gemini, NotebookLM), educational AI (BRISK, Curipod, Diffit), creative AI (Canva AI, HeyGen,Replit), productivity AI (Notion AI, Gamma), and specialized tools aligned to your context. You’ll learn to evaluate, implement, and lead with these tools.

Do I need to pay for AI subscriptions?

While many tools have free tiers sufficient for learning, having at least one premium AI subscription (like ChatGPT Plus or Claude Pro) will enhance your experience.

What certification do I receive?

Upon completion, you earn an Advanced Certificate in AI Integration for Educational Leadership, digital badge for professional portfolios, recognition in CALIE’s statewide network, verified credentials for career advancement, and the option for 8 graduate-level units through USD.

How will this impact my career?

AILA graduates report increased visibility as innovation leaders, new opportunities for leadership roles, enhanced confidence in leading change initiatives, expanded networks, and practical skills immediately applicable to current challenges. You’ll be positioned as an AI leader, not just an AI user.

How do I apply?

Visit joincalie.org/ai-leadership-academy to register. The application includes basic professional information, a brief statement of interest and goals, and your current role and context. Spots are limited to maintain cohort quality.

When should I apply?

Apply as soon as possible. Cohorts are limited to 50 participants to ensure quality interaction and personalized support. Early registration helps with planning, district approval processes, and payment plan setup.