2025-26 Series | Leading Deeper Learning

Includes a self-paced course from Harvard Graduate School of Education and Harvard Business School

Currently running October 8, 2025 through March 4, 2026

Enroll Today!

About

This four-part Act 45 professional learning series is designed to support school building leaders as they navigate instructional leadership and strive to meet students' evolving needs. This year's theme, Leading for Deeper Learning, guides both individual professional growth and collaborative networking. As part of the series, each participant will have the opportunity to complete Leading Learning; an online, self-paced course designed by Harvard Graduate School of Education (HGSE) & Harvard Business School, and hosted on Harvard's portal. Key themes explored throughout the series include leading instruction for transformation, the foundations of deeper learning, and cultivating a culture that fosters deeper learning in every classroom for every student.

Contact

Megan Roberts Meganr@cciu.org | CCIU Instructional Initiatives Coordinator | 484-237-5009

 

 

Council Review

For Principal Nicole Forrest, stepping into her leadership role at Sugartown Elementary last year felt like a fresh challenge. Transitioning from years in secondary education, she knew she needed a strong team to navigate the complexities of elementary school leadership. That’s where the Chester County Intermediate Unit’s (CCIU) Principal Study Council (PSC) has made all the difference. 

PSC, a yearlong Act 45 course with a focus on networking with others, isn’t just another set of meetings throughout the year—it’s an in-person network of building leaders committed to growth, collaboration, and real impact.  

One of the biggest takeaways for Nicole this year? Recognizing who in our school is “on the perimeter” and pulling them in. “I’ve learned how to see who, at my school, might be feeling disconnected, and I’ve made it my goal to bring them in, really focusing on the concept of belonging,” she says. 

The CCIU’s Principal Study Council provides more than just a meeting—it’s a space for lasting professional growth and valuable collaboration for building leaders across the county. Nicole appreciates that the program still prioritizes time to collaborate with her peers, while in the past few years, it has also become a professional learning program that provides Act 45 credits. 

“We’re seeing more and more principals join our Principal Study Council each year”, says Karissa Lookingbill, from the CCIU. Working collaboratively with our Principal Advisory Group, we seek input from the principals and then design the program around their feedback. It’s our honor to bring building leaders together to support their leadership and learning in such a meaningful way”.  

For Sugartown Elementary, the impact of PSC is visible every day. “It strengthens our leadership team and gives us tools we wouldn’t have otherwise,” Nicole says. Her advice to other principals? Join. You won’t regret it.