P-12 School Leadership Option 

The P-12 school leadership program allows candidates to become entry-level school or system administrators. Candidates can obtain an M.Ed. or can add P-12 School Leadership and become GaPSC-certified in educational leadership at level 5 by completing the program and posting a passing score on the GACE Educational Leadership Assessment.

Selected Educational Outcomes

  1. Candidates will demonstrate knowledge of the pedagogy in their fields as delineated in professional, state, and institutional standards.
  2. Candidates will use data and current research to inform practices.
  3. Candidates will create positive environments for student learning.
  4. Candidates will demonstrate skills and knowledge to build upon the developmental levels of students with whom they work; the diversity of students, families, and communities; and the policy contexts within which they work.

Examples of Outcome Assessments

  1. Candidates will demonstrate content knowledge through passing the state-required content assessment.
  2. Candidates will demonstrate their ability to use data and current research to inform their practice through completion of a project designed to improve student achievement.
  3. Candidates will demonstrate their ability to create positive environments for student learning during a faculty and mentor observation of their clinical practice.
  4. Candidates will demonstrate their ability to positively impact P-12 schools through their completion of an Inventory of Leadership Experiences.

Prior to admission to any graduate program at Valdosta State University, applicants must first submit a completed application to the Graduate School. A completed application packet includes official transcripts from all institutions previously attended, official test scores (GRE or MAT), completed application form, fee, and any additional program requirements submitted by the admission deadline. To be considered for the preferred term, all required materials must be received by the Graduate School no later than the close of business on the deadline. It is the responsibility of the applicant to allow adequate time for document submission and to ensure receipt of documents. 

Requirements for the M.Ed. Degree in Educational Leadership
P-12 School Leadership Option 

Area A -- Leadership12
Ethical and Legal Issues for Leadership
Leadership for Community and Public Relations
School Culture, Change and Organizational Dynamics
Managing Resources for School Improvement
Area B -- Curriculum and Instruction12
Advanced Research Methodology
Instructional Leadership and Supervisory Practices for Improved Teaching and Learning
Technology Leadership for School Improvement
Curriculum, Instruction, and Technology Integration
Area C -- Field-based Activities6
Leadership Field Experiences I
Leadership Field Experiences II
Total hours required for the degree30

Other Degree Requirements

Candidates must take the GACE Content Assessment in educational leadership.

Additional Certification Requirements

Please note that all students who hold or are seeking GaPSC educator certification must successfully complete EDUC 5999. Prior to being recommended for a clear/renewable Georgia leadership certificate, a candidate must meet the PSC Special Requirements (PSC 505-2-20)--Identification and Education of Children with Special Needs and pass the GACE Content Assessment in Educational Leadership.