Developing leaders who can transform systems

Last fall, USC Rossier launched a new track for its Doctor of Education in Educational Leadership online program: the Executive Cohort. The cohort was created specifically for system leaders in K–12 education who already hold leadership positions but aim to advance their careers to higher levels where their leadership can fuel innovation, advance equity and drive sustainable change. 

The inaugural cohort of the program includes students who are already current system leaders in school districts throughout California. Former superintendent and Professor of Clinical Education David Cash, who led the design of the cohort program, explains that “the cohort is small and focused on examining theory aligned with context through the use of case studies. These case studies give leaders the opportunity to learn about and find solutions to complex issues, examine strategies that might be most effective and anticipate what obstacles might get in the way.”

Monica Martinez-Johnson, a self-described first-generation Latina whose professional goal is to reach the superintendency, is a student in the program’s inaugural cohort. Currently, an assistant superintendent of educational services at Little Lake City School District, she applied to the program because she “wanted a program that would honor my story while preparing me for the realities of systems-level leadership.” 

In courses like “Foundations of Leadership” and “Foundations of Education,” Martinez-Johnson and her peers learn from current and retired superintendents. “I'm gaining practical insight into what I'll actually face—not theoretical frameworks alone, but real decisions, real challenges and real strategies,” she says. Program faculty include several former superintendents, including professors David Cash, Rudolph Crew, Gregory Franklin, Maria Ott and Darline Robles. These practitioners have decades of experience in some of the most challenging roles in education, and members of the executive cohort gain mentorship and guidance from those who have truly “been there and done that.” Jason Chong, director of educational services at Fullerton School District, says that the executive cohort has given him the “opportunity to learn from the best in the educational field who have served the educational community and have a depth of knowledge and experience not found anywhere else.”

Lynnae Musgrove, a coordinator of special education at Azusa Unified School District, found her way to the program because she “wanted to be surrounded by fellow educational leaders who share my commitment to transforming systems for all students.” Musgrove’s path to education included several years of substitute teaching and service as a special education teacher at Pasadena Unified. Now, she has her sights on district leadership. The program, she says, has deepened her understanding of how “high expectations, human caring and innovative practices can dismantle barriers and create truly inclusive learning environments.” The program’s focus on preparing leaders to ensure every child, regardless of ability, is celebrated, supported and empowered to reach their fullest potential,” deeply resonates with her.

When students enroll at USC, they also gain access to the Trojan Network. USC Rossier has prepared hundreds of professionals for roles like the superintendency and other high-level leadership positions in K–12 education. There are currently over 90 USC Rossier alumni in superintendent positions throughout California, including Darin Brawley, superintendent of Compton Unified; Elizabeth Blanco, superintendent of Pasadena Unified; Roxane Fuentes, superintendent of Berryessa Union School District; and Wesley Smith, superintendent of Newport-Mesa Unified.

Chung, who also aspires to the superintendency, has found community and support from his peers in the cohort. Through the program, he’s been able to work “with colleagues who are in similar positions as myself.” This experience, he says, has been invaluable. “I am excited to see how the knowledge and networking will help me become a stronger leader and contributor to the community I serve. If a superintendency is in the future, I know this program will have played an influential role in that future possibility.” 

Applications for the Doctor of Education in Educational Leadership Executive Cohort online are being accepted on a rolling basis. Interested candidates can learn more about the program here and by contacting Professor of Clinical Education David Cash at dcash@usc.edu.