A GENUINE LEADER IS NOT A SEARCHER FOR CONSENSUS BUT A MOLDER OF CONSENSUS.” – MARTIN LUTHER KING JR.
Superintendents see the big picture as administrators and are inspired to lead at the district level. These respected leaders influence school policy and are committed to academic success for all students, strategic leadership, stewardship of resources, and community relations.
If your goal is to become a superintendent or attain a senior central office position, our one-year Superintendent Certification program will help you discover your leadership style and be prepared to meet the demands of this position. You will have the opportunity to participate in panel discussions with some of the most accomplished superintendents in Texas. Access to these esteemed educational leaders is unparalleled.
Our Superintendent Certification program begins every September and continues through August. The energy and commitment you bring to this pivotal point in your career are what we continually embrace in our mission to train dynamic, effective leaders in Texas school districts.
Contact us today to get started on your new career!
The Region 4 Inspire Texas Superintendent Certification program prepares you to navigate the big picture in running a Texas school district. Through internship assignments, research-required reading, and leadership sessions, you’ll be in a position to make an impact on children in Houston, TX, and the surrounding areas in Texas.
To begin the Superintendent Certification program, you will need:
- a valid Standard Principal or Mid-Management Certificate; OR TEA approval to substitute managerial experience in lieu of principal certification.
- Click here to access the application for TEA approval.
- a Master’s or other advanced degree from a regionally accredited university with a minimum GPA of 3.0
To be eligible for admission, an applicant shall have a grade point average (GPA) of at least 3.00 The GPA shall be calculated from an official transcript as follows:
- 3.00 on all coursework previously attempted at an accredited IHE
- or 3.00 in the last 60 semester credit hours on all coursework previously attempted at an accredited IHE
Step 1: Apply
Complete the online application and pay the $95 non-refundable fee.
- Official transcripts (sealed) showing a master’s degree
- Service record (if applicable)
- Letter of reference from your superintendent (on district letterhead)
Mail to:
Inspire Texas | Educator Certification by Region 4
7145 W. Tidwell Rd., Houston, TX 77092
You have 60 days to finish your application once started. A background check is required for all applicants.
Step 2: Train
Complete a one-year training program that includes:
- Online coursework + six full-day leadership sessions led by current Texas superintendents
- 200+ hours of instruction on key topics like board relations, finance, legal issues, and district planning
- A 160-hour field experience under a certified superintendent mentor
You’ll also receive dedicated preparation for the TExES Superintendent Exam.
Step 3: Get Certified
In your final months, attend exam prep sessions and take the TExES exam.
Upon successful completion of training, fieldwork, and all fees, Region 4 Inspire Texas will recommend you for the Standard Superintendent Certificate.
Flexible Payment Plan:
Upon acceptance, pay your certification fees in 11 monthly installments while you complete your training.
Program Fees
- Application Fee (non-refundable): $100
- Superintendent Certification Program: $6,900
(Includes internship, six leadership academy sessions, and TExES exam preparation)
Additional Certification Costs (Paid to TEA)
- TExES Superintendent Exam: $131
- Standard Certificate Application Fee: $78
- Probationary Certificate Fee (if required by employer): $78
Aspiring Superintendent and Leadership Academy
Now Enrolling: Class of 2025–2026
Registration Deadline: Thursday, September 4, 2025
Fee: $1,000
Who Should Attend
This academy is ideal for:
- Individuals pursuing the superintendency as a career
- Principals or administrators aiming for senior central office roles
- Central office leaders seeking a deeper understanding of the superintendent’s responsibilities
What’s Included
Six full-day, in-person sessions designed to:
- Deepen your knowledge of issues critical to superintendent success
- Connect you with prominent, practicing superintendents
- Offer valuable networking and mentoring opportunities
- Feature expert guest speakers with statewide recognition
Note: This academy does not include Texas Superintendent certification. However, participants may pursue certification through additional online coursework and field experience.
2025–2026 Session Schedule
Session 1
Thursday, September 18, 2025 | 9:30 a.m.–3:30 p.m.
The Superintendency: An Overview (competencies, job search, ethics, board relationships)
Session 2
Thursday, October 23, 2025 | 9:30 a.m.–3:30 p.m.
Superintendent as Instructional Leader (visioning, strategic planning, accountability)
Session 3
Thursday, November 13, 2025 | 9:30 a.m.–3:30 p.m.
Superintendent as Financial Leader (funding, budgeting, public education finance)
Session 4
Thursday, January 15, 2026 | 9:30 a.m.–3:30 p.m.
The Superintendent and the Law (student and parent rights, HR, open meetings)
Session 5
Thursday, February 12, 2026 | 9:30 a.m.–3:30 p.m.
Superintendent as Operational Leader (facilities, transportation, safety, bonds)
Session 6
Thursday, April 23, 2026 | 9:30 a.m.–3:30 p.m.
Superintendent as Community Leader (community engagement, advocacy, life after certification)
Register Now
For more information about this program, contact: Rudy Treviño, EdD
713.744.6385 | rudy.trevino@esc4.net