Now Accepting Applications for the 2025-2026 Statewide Transition Leaders Academy (Center on Transition Innovations, CTI, at VCU and the Virginia Department of Education, VDOE)

Description:

The Virginia Department of Education, in partnership with the Center on Transition Innovations at Virginia Commonwealth University, is announcing the launch of the second cohort of its Statewide Transition Leaders Academy (STLA). This initiative is designed to be responsive to recent legislation and reporting requirements from the Virginia General Assembly and to enhance special education leadership and implementation in secondary transition by providing comprehensive professional development and technical assistance. The aim of these activities and compressive plan is to improve postsecondary outcomes for students with disabilities across Virginia for successful transition to higher education or trade/technical training, career/work, and community life.

The Academy will begin with a three-day workshop in August 2025 followed by monthly two-day seminars through May 2026. These sessions will provide professional learning for participants, equipping them with necessary knowledge and skills to excel in instructional leadership roles and to coordinate, implement, and monitor evidence-based practices for transition planning and services.

Cohort II STLA Application

To apply for the program, download and complete the STLA Application. All candidates must submit their applications through their school division’s director of special education. Applications are due April 30, 2025.

Application packets must be submitted to the attention of Katherine Willis, Senior Administrative Assistant, Center on Transition Innovations.

Selection Criteria

Approximately 32 participants will be selected for Cohort II. To be considered, candidates must be endorsed by the school division’s superintendent or designee and director of special education.

For more information please visit Statewide Transition Leaders Academy (STLA).