AI Leadership Academy

When does the AI Leadership Academy start and end?

The fall 2026-2027 cohort runs from August 6, to November 5, 2026. Sessions are held every other Thursday, 4:00–5:30 PM PT.

What does the monthly schedule look like?

• Live Virtual Sessions: Every other Thursday from 4:00 – 5:30 p.m. PT. Plan to attend and collaborate live.

• Independent Activities: Self-paced work between sessions.

• Cohort Collaboration: Peer feedback and community engagement.

• Total Time Commitment: Approximately 25-30 hours per month, including live sessions, reflection, and independent work.

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! The AI Leadership Academy 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?

Early Bird Registration (through June 1): $650 Members / $930 Non-Members

Regular Registration (June 2 – August 1): $750 Members / $1,050 Non-Members

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. PO’s are accepted.

How much time will this really require?

The program requires approximately 25-30 hours per month, including 3 hours for the live monthly sessions, plus independent work spread throughout the month.

What does ‘independent activity’ mean?

Independent activities are practical, job-embedded tasks where you explore and implement concepts and 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, a 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 extension credits (in semester hours)?

University credit through the University of San Diego 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.

Certificate Option: Earn an Advanced Certificate in AI Integration for Educational Leadership. This certificate recognizes educators who have demonstrated the ability to effectively integrate AI tools into both classroom and administrative settings, build innovative student-centered learning experiences, and develop strategic professional development plans to enhance educational environments. This certificate can be purchased as an ‘add on’ during the purchase of units through the University of San Diego.

What AI tools will we be using?

The academy explores a comprehensive toolkit including generative AI, educational AI, creative AI, productivity AI, 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 a digital badge for professional portfolios, recognition in CALIE’s statewide network, verified credentials for career advancement, and the option for 8 graduate-level extension credits in semester hours through the University of San Diego. Participants who purchase the 8 units from USD have the option to add on the Advanced Certificate in AI Integration for Educational Leadership. for an additional fee. Units must be earned in order to receive the Advanced Professional Certificate.

How will this impact my career?

AI Leadership Academy 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 register?

Visit joincalie.org/ai-leadership-academy to register. Spaces are limited – register early!

When should I register?

Apply as soon as possible. Early registration helps with planning, district approval processes, and payment plan setup.