Lead the Future of Texas Schools

Step into Texas school district leadership with Region 4. Our Superintendent Certification Program gives you unmatched access to district leaders, resources, and networks—opportunities you won’t find in any South Texas program. Get the training, insight, and preparation to lead with confidence. Our one-year certification program starts every September.

Start Your Path to the Superintendency.

For application information, email Dr. Rudy Trevino, Chief Officer, Superintendent and Board Services, or complete the online form.

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Superintendent Certification Program Overview

Complete the online application. The application fee is $100 and is non-refundable.

NOTE: You have up to 60 days to complete the online application once it is started.

For application information, email Dr. Rudy Trevino, Chief Officer, Superintendent and Board Services, or complete this online form.

After your application is submitted and documents received, you will be notified via email of your acceptance into the program.

Train with Trusted Leaders. Step into District Leadership with Confidence.

The Region 4 Superintendent Certification Program is your fastest, most supported path to earning certification in just one year. Our flexible model combines online learning with six expert-led sessions at the Region 4 Aspiring Superintendent and Leadership Academy—where real Texas superintendents share insights on school leadership, board relations, finance, and more.

You’ll complete over 200 hours of guided training and 160 hours of hands-on fieldwork with a certified superintendent mentor. Plus, we provide targeted prep for the TExES Superintendent exam—so you’re ready when it counts.

Every part of the program is built to fit working professionals, with support that rivals no other in the state. With deep ties to Houston-area districts and beyond, Region 4 opens doors that other programs simply can’t.

Ready to lead? We’re ready to help.

Step 3: Get Certified and Step Into the Role You’re Meant For

You’ve put in the work—now it’s time to finish strong. In the final stretch of the program, you’ll receive expert-led preparation for the TExES Superintendent exam, ensuring you’re confident and ready on test day.

Once you’ve passed the exam and completed all training, fieldwork, and program requirements, Region 4 will recommend you for the standard Texas Superintendent Certificate.

From application to certification, we walk beside you every step of the way—so you can walk into district leadership fully prepared and fully supported.

Applications are due by September 4, 2025.  Email Dr. Rudy Trevino, Chief Officer, Superintendent and Board Services, or complete this online form.


Important Dates

Hybrid Format with Real Support

Balance online coursework with face-to-face learning and personalized mentorship, giving you structure and guidance at every step.
All in-person Academy and Final Training Sessions are held on Thursdays at Region 4 ESC.

Session 1September 17, 2026
Session 2October 22, 2026
Session 3November 12, 2026
Session 4January 14, 2027
Session 5February 11, 2027
Session 6April 22, 2027
Session 7June 10, 2027 (optional)

Additional In-Person Sessions are scheduled for March 4, 2027, April 1st, 2027, and May 6th, 2027.

These sessions are designated as in-person Superintendent Certification test practice sessions. These sessions are 3–5 hours long (8:30 a.m. – 1:30 p.m.) and simulate a testing setting. All certification candidates must participate in at least one of the three sessions offered.

Your Leadership Advantage Starts Here

Real Access to Local Leaders
Learn directly from practicing Texas superintendents during in-person academy sessions—an experience you won’t find in fully online programs.

Houston’s Network. Your Advantage.
Region 4 partners with one of the largest concentrations of districts in Texas, giving you access to hiring contacts and leadership visibility that other program can’t match.

Practicum
Complete your 160-hour field experience in your current district or an approved site—with mentorship from a certified superintendent and supervision from Region 4.

Responsive, Local Support
Work with a Houston-based team who knows your district, your community, and your needs. No call centers. No delays.

What You Need to Know Before Applying

Region 4 Fees

  • Application Fee: $100
  • Superintendent Certification Training Fees: $6,900

Payable in 11 monthly installments throughout the course of the program. Includes Internship and Aspiring Superintendent & Leadership Academy, and TExES preparation.

Additional Fees Required for Certification

  • Superintendent TExES Exam: $131
  • Standard Superintendent Certificate Application Fee: $78
  • Probationary Superintendent Certificate (if required for the position): $78

Aspiring Superintendent & Leadership Academy

Interested in just enrolling in the Aspiring Superintendent and Leadership Academy?

Enrollment Fee: $1,000

Applicants to the Region 4 Superintendent Certification Program must meet the following requirements:

  • Complete the online Superintendent Certification application and submit the $100 non-refundable application fee.
  • Submit official Bachelor’s and Master’s degree transcripts from a regionally accredited institution of higher education (or a foreign institution approved under accepted standards) reflecting a minimum 3.0 GPA.
  • Hold a valid Texas Principal certificate OR obtain TEA approval to substitute managerial experience in lieu of Principal certification. Visit the Becoming a Superintendent in Texas page to find the Superintendent Certification application to request approval from the TEA.
  • Submit verification of current employment in an administrative role above the classroom teacher level (District Service Record from Human Resources).
  • Submit a letter of reference and support from your Superintendent or District-Level Administrator on district letterhead supporting participation in the program.
  • Complete the Superintendent Competency Review, which consists of three essays that can be uploaded through the  Google Form as a Word document.

Most admissions documents may be uploaded directly through the 26-27 Superintendent Certification Google Form.

The Region 4 Superintendent Certification Program is designed for working professionals and combines coursework, mentorship, and field-based experiences within a one-year certification model.

Program participants should expect the following:

    • Coursework and internship requirements are completed concurrently over a 12-month period.
    • Candidates must be able to attend Region 4 face-to-face sessions approximately once per month.
    • Internship and mentorship experiences are non-paid professional learning experiences.
    • Applicants are responsible for logging a minimum of 160 Superintendent activities.
    • All candidates must work with an approved Mentor or Site Supervisor throughout the internship experience.

The designated Mentor or Site Supervisor must:

    • Hold a valid Texas Educator Superintendent certificate.
    • Be a current Superintendent employed by a TEA-accredited school district.
    • Have a minimum of three years of experience serving as a Superintendent in the certification area sought by the intern.
    • Mentor or Site Supervisor designated on the Statement of Eligibility document must sign off on all practicum and internship documentation and hours required for program completion.