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VIRGINIA ASSOCIATION OF SCHOOL SUPERINTENDENTS

Virginia Superintendents Leadership Academy

Capstone Project


Participation in the VSLA is a significant investment in personal and professional growth. It institutionalizes lessons learned and provides tangible follow-up leading to student success. The Capstone Project is the authentic artifact produced by participants in the Academy.

The VSLA Capstone Project incorporates features of the AASA Capstone process developed by Dr. Bernadine Futrell, Director, Leadership Network, AASA. VSLA participants work in small groups to identify a problem of interest and to develop a recommended action plan that improves student performance in their school division, while concurrently enhancing the body of knowledge and skills acquired through participation in the VSLA.

The Capstone Project is a requirement for VSLA participants. Completion will include a formal white paper and oral presentation during the last session of the Academy. The VSLA Capstone Project is linked to the Professional Standards for Education Leaders developed by the National Policy Board for Educational Administration in collaboration with AASA and others, and each project will be grounded in the Profiles of a Virginia Leader, Graduate, Classroom and Educator. The ultimate purpose of the VSLA Capstone Project is to provide participants with an opportunity to apply their experiences, knowledge and skills in real-world settings.