The AASA National Superintendent Certification program is a 20 month certification program focused on the key issues and modules cited below.     There were only 2 Superintendents from NJ that took part in the East 2022 Cohort that Dr. Caponegro graduated from with the cohort consisting of approximately 30 members.    

“This was an incredible program and learning experience.  The real benefit of this program was working alongside Superintendents outside of NJ and discussing issues we are all facing, some similar and some different, and comparing operating procedures, instructional initiatives, communication, pitfalls, and establishing a network of communication for the future.  It’s important that we all continue to grow as individuals and professionals.” Dr. Steven Caponegro, Superintendent of Schools shared

QUOTE:  Mr. Brian Perillo, President – Florham Park Board of Education.

“We are so proud of Dr. Caponegro for taking this step to ensure he is in the best position possible to support the Florham Park School District.  Having the opportunity to look at national trends and operating procedures, as well as to build lasting relationships with some of the leading administrators in the field, can only yield benefits for our school district.  This certification shows Dr. Cap’s ongoing commitment to continuing to learn and grow in his position, and we know that in the long run, it is the students of Florham Park who will benefit.” Brian Perillo, President of the Florham Park Board of Education said. 

The AASA National Superintendent Certification program is a 20 month certification program focused on the the key issues and modules below.     There were only 2 Superintendents from NJ that took part in the East Cohort that I graduated from with the cohort consisting of approximately 30 members.  Many breakout and info sessions took place at night’s, weekends, etc.   The real benefit to this program was working alongside Superintendents outside of NJ and discussing issues they are facing (some similar/different), and comparing operating procedures, communication, pitfalls, etc. and establishing a network of those to communicate with.  

“My goal and reason for taking part in this program, as you probably already know, is to learn and grow as much as I can in my role to support the school community,” Caponegro said.    

AASA has planned a robust experience that focuses on sharpening the skills that successful superintendents acknowledge are needed to thrive on the job and provides relevant experiences for our members. It is clear that political and economic pressures of the job are exacerbated by growing intrusions into local control. Our certification program will help our members thrive in these difficult conditions. 

Key Issues: The program focused on 8 key issues, including but not limited to:

• Transformational Leadership and Visioning
• Understanding and Developing Effective Board-Superintendent Relations 
• Understanding and Ensuring Equity 
• Navigating Community, State and National Politics 
• The Impact of Economic Pressures, Budgeting and the Global Pandemic
• Effective Instructional Leadership and Continuous School and System Improvement 
• Impactful and Effective Communications including Social Media for All Stakeholders 
• Serving Effectively as CEO and Education Leader in the District and Community 

14 Program Modules:

• Module I         Ethics and Professional Norms for the Future Ready Superintendent
• Module II        Promoting Equity and Cultural Responsiveness: Shared Vision of Student Achievement and Well Being
• Module III      A Vision for Educational Leadership for the Future Ready Superintendent
• Module IV      Superintendent and Board Relations, Policies, and Procedures
• Module V       The Superintendent and the District’s Communication Plan
• Module VI      Organizational Culture Building: Promoting a Shared Vision for Quality Teaching and Learning
• Module VII     Engaging Families, Businesses, Government Agencies, and the Community
• Module VIII   The Superintendent as the Instructional Leader: Curriculum, Assessment and Instruction
• Module IX      The Role of the Superintendent in Promoting the School/System Improvement Process
• Module X       Addressing Social Emotional and Academic Learning: Building a Community of Care and Support
• Module XI      Building Professional Capacity and Community in the Learning Organization
• Module XII    Operations and Management
• Module XIII    Legislative Advocacy and Culminating Capstone Projects
• Module XIV   Putting it All Together: Culminating Capstone Projects, Reflections, and Graduation