An Administrator Capacity-Building Program
Leading Healthy Schools (LHS) is a free, year-long professional development and coaching program for school administrators to help them gain the knowledge and skills necessary to lead a school that prioritizes student health and wellness. Participants engage in collaborative learning experiences and coaching that are flexible to their school’s context and relevant to their role as a school leader.
Join Us!
Registration for the 2026 cohort is now open! To be considered, submit your application by August 10, 2025.
Register Today!
Attend an Information Session
Interested in learning more about the program before you register? Sign up to attend an information session with LHS Program Director Kaitlyn Gaddis Thompson and hear from members of the 2024 and 2025 LHS cohorts!
Join LHS to Experience
National Networking
Connect with other administrators across the country and collectively increase your awareness of wellness policies and practices to benefit your school community.
Access to Resources
Gain access to evidence-based resources and tools to advance equitable health practices and programs at your school AND influence the creation of additional resources.
Relevant Development
Experience professional learning experiences designed specifically for administrators to be able to apply immediately to their daily practice.
Past Cohorts Say...
“I was able to focus on staff wellness, make connections with people that I would have never had the opportunity to connect with, and this has led to other connections and opportunities.”
“I had a program implemented here at the juvenile center and we are adding to it, which makes the program more valuable to the children participating. This will make the community healthier.”
“I enjoyed being able to have intentional time, share resources, and connect with other administrators around the country tackling similar challenges.”
Who Should Join?
Principals
Assistant Principals
Directors
Deans
- With a desire to foster increased physical activity and positive education for the entire school community
- Committed to continued learning and promotion of equity, diversity, and inclusivity
- Seeking to support high-quality, standards-based Health and Physical Education programs
What Can Participants Expect?
- Join a cohort of 20 administrators from schools across the country;
- Attend a mix of whole group and interest-based small group professional development sessions;
- Receive 1:1 strategic planning and implementation support, and;
- Travel to SHAPE America's national convention in Kansas City to share knowledge with SHAPE constituents and continue networking and skill development.
Chances to win
Curricular Resources and Equipment
Complimentary SHAPE America Membership
for a teacher in your school or district
Travel Stipend and Accommodations
to attend #SHAPEKC
Certificate of Development Hours
Past Participants
2025 Cohort of Leading Healthy Schools Administrators
Inaugural Cohort of Leading Healthy Schools Administrators