In the Queen Creek Unified School District (QCUSD), we invest in our faculty and staff to develop leadership skills and tools to advance careers, just as we do with our students. Having exceptional personnel is a strategic priority for our district and we want QCUSD to be a place where staff members excel and progress in their career, ultimately contributing to a greater organization.
To support staff in these efforts, we offer a variety of programs for professional development and leadership. Our Queen Creek Leadership Academy (QCLA) offers employees the chance to develop the skills necessary to assume the role of a school administrator. Participants receive training in the form of seminars, problem-solving scenarios, peer collaboration, and opportunities for resume improvement and mock interviews. More than 20 participants are in the academy this school year, learning to advance their professional skills. Through QCLA, we have supported over 20 employees to advance their professional careers (i.e. admin, specialists, instructional coaches, etc.) and we are very proud of this.
The QCUSD Aspire2Teach program is another professional development opportunity for those who hold a bachelor’s degree and would like to become certified teachers. Participants spend two years participating in 150 hours of professional development, coaching, mentorship and observation. They train for their teaching certification, opening new doors to their career with the district.
Teachers and staff members also have the opportunity to participate in the Staff-Superintendent Advisory Council, a group that meets regularly to discuss district initiatives, share feedback, and keep open lines of communication between the Superintendent’s Office and our schools. School sites also provide leadership opportunities including department chair positions, committees and additional training.
In QCUSD, we expect our students to become lifelong learners and future leaders. We know the best way to lead is by example.
Dr. Perry Berry has been superintendent of the Queen Creek Unified School District since June 2015.
