The faculty at North Carolina State University (NCSU) have focused on dramatically improving principal preparation - driven by a mission reflected in the program motto: “Excellent Leaders, Effective Schools, Enriched Communities.” Unique to the design of this nationally recognized program is the utilization of Cohort Coaches to help aspiring leaders live their learning and make connections across program coursework that lead to effective leadership practice. NCSU incorporates an innovative approach to help Master of School Administration (MSA) students progress through the degree program which leads to school principal licensure. The Cohort Coach (CC) assures seamless delivery of the MSA program. CC’s provide support and coaching to aspiring school leaders and oversees coordination and implementation of a comprehensive array of leadership learning experiences. They act as a navigator who ensures aspiring leaders are challenged and document their growth throughout the program. The CC also helps the aspiring leaders live their learning and walk participants through difficult processes. Activities may include joint observations of teaching, role playing crucial/critical conversations with under-performing teachers, and other tasks that challenge novice school leaders. Each CC assists with the training of the Principal Mentors; coordinate and participate in regular meetings with the school-based Principal Mentors and the Aspiring Leader Executive Coaches who coach on improving practice in schools; regularly supervise and coach aspiring school leaders on school site visits; coordinate and supervise school internships/principal residencies; communicate regularly with partner school districts; and assist graduates with obtaining school leadership positions in partner school districts. In post-degree surveys, graduates continually provide feedback regarding the positive impact of CC’s on their leadership practice and the meaningful relationships which remain strong for years afterward graduation. By utilizing CC’s, NCSU is able to accelerate and accommodate learning experiences for each aspiring principal’s growth and development. NCSU Principal Preparation graduates are ready to assume leadership roles immediately after graduation. Perhaps most importantly, our school district partners rate the performance of NCSU graduates’ as outstanding. Indeed, at last measure, 90% of schools with a NCSU graduate serving as principal, met or exceeded student academic growth targets vs. only 75% of all other principals statewide reaching the same level of performance.

Keywords: Pedagogical Innovations, Education Practice Trends &amp, Issues, Leadership &amp, Educational Management.