APEX Program Details

Pathways OptionsA graphic of three pillars of different heights showing three career pathways: teacher-leader, rising leader, and academy leader

The APEX Program for School Leadership recognizes that leadership is not confined to a particular title or position, nor is it reserved for those who aspire to become the head of a school. Rather, leadership is a vocation to cultivate virtue, exercise sound judgment, and serve others well. Accordingly, the program offers distinct pathways for educators at different stages of their leadership journey: Teacher-Leader for those who wish to deepen their influence while remaining rooted in the classroom, Rising Leader for those who are serving or preparing to serve in formal supporting leadership roles, and Academy Leader for those who aspire to the Head of School position.

Resources

Throughout the program, APEX gives participants access to downloadable artifacts that may be adapted for use in a variety of school contexts. APEX assignments are created to simulate on-the-job tasks, allowing participants to build a portfolio of references to use now or in the future. The readings for each course vary, but in general, participants purchase two-to-three texts to complete the required reading assignments.​

Flexibility

Most courses are four to six weeks in length, and participants may take stand-alone courses or progress through a systematic scope and sequence. Each course features mostly asynchronous content through an online learning management system, as well as up to four synchronous online discussions.

Nuts & Bolts

Course fees are typically $250 per course for non-Great Hearts participants. Great Hearts employees may enroll free of charge. Participants need to purchase the course books, which will add between $15 and $80 to the course expense. Courses usually provide 12-16 hours of activity over a four-to-six week period. At least one year of teaching experience as a full-time classroom teacher is required to enroll in courses.