The Higley Leadership Academy was recently redesigned to include new features such as a mentorship component and a graduation ceremony, enhancing the overall experience and providing additional support and recognition for participants.

Open to any employee interested in advancing their role, this program allows participants to enhance their leadership skills through mentorship, professional development sessions, and service projects.

“Since its inception, over 160 employees have participated in the program, and over the 10-year span, we have retained nearly 80% of the participants," said James Walker, director of human resources and student services.

“HLA has expanded to not only offer leadership and growth opportunities for prospective school administrators but is now available to any Higley employee seeking to enhance their leadership capacity.”

Established in 2014, the Higley Leadership Academy started as a Principal Academy aimed at developing future school leaders by helping participants apply their knowledge and skills to improve student outcomes. 

The program’s projects are designed to leverage the strengths, talents, creativity, and resources of the HLA team. Guided by core values such as integrity, connections, learning-centered approaches and accountability, these projects have made a significant impact.

Notable initiatives include the Fine Arts Festival, Best Buddies Carnival, and Literacy Night.

Rachael Villanueva, a sixth-grade teacher at San Tan Elementary, commented on the value of the program. 

“I would encourage all Higley employees to participate in the HLA program as it offers numerous benefits," she said. "The HLA program provides opportunities for district employees to gain a deeper understanding of the school district through interactive and collaborative activities.

"The program enhances participants’ awareness of how school systems work together to create safe and enriching environments for students and staff. Ultimately, the HLA program has a lasting impact that extends beyond its participants.”

The staff development component of HLA aims to cultivate leaders across all divisions, promote leadership across all employee groups, and align the program to address the needs of all areas within the district.

John Stone, HUSD’s newly promoted assistant director of transportation, participated in the program.

“The HLA program allows you to see the bigger picture and understand how different departments within the district interact,” he said. “It’s easy to focus solely on our own department, but knowing how all the pieces fit together is crucial for effectively implementing ideas.”