Leadership Academy for Supervisors

The Leadership Academy for Supervisors (LAS) will offer online training that draws on adult learning and leadership principles tailored to the role of the supervisor and also with an eye toward preparing supervisors for advancement as part of succession planning. The training framework includes four major components: A core certification curriculum addressing all competency areas; stand-alone training modules on specific topics of related interest; facilitated peer networking; and a catalogued inventory of related resources. The content will be delivered through self-paced, web-based modules with embedded learning activities.

LAS Objectives

• Develop and deliver a supervisory training program consistent with a dynamic and changing child welfare system
• Structure training and learning in such a way so that the learners are able to solve both concrete and conceptual problems in a variety of settings
• Build a learning approach that includes real case scenarios, small group learning over time, team-based problem-solving and practice, and learning reinforcement

Target Audience
The target audience will include all supervisors in public and tribal child welfare agencies and in private agencies that are contracted by the State to provide case management services that are traditionally provided by the public child welfare system. In recognition of the importance of supervisory reinforcement, guidance and feedback to the successful transfer of learning, all courses will include optional features that encourage training participants to incorporate their supervisor (middle manager) into their learning. The long-term target goal for the LAS is to enroll at least 2,000 supervisors who complete all five core courses during the next five years. The short-term goal is that an average of 250 supervisors will complete at least one core course per quarter beginning in the Fall of 2009.

LAS Advisory Council
A group of national experts will provide guidance and support to the LAS. The role of the council is to provide feedback to the project management team on marketing, ensuring national relevance, best practice in curricula design, content relevant to supervisory needs, and ensuring best practice in training delivery design.

LAS Training Enrollment
We now have two LAS modules available: the Introductory Module and Foundations of Leadership. To preview the training and to register, please click here to participate in the Orientation Module. This short, on-line learning experience will take about 10 minutes to complete. We hope you will find it informative and engaging. At the end of the module you can register for LAS training and begin participating at your own pace and schedule.

LAS Training Content
For more information about the training content, click here.

Still Have Questions?
If you still have questions, please click here for responses to Frequently Asked Questions (FAQs).

Please contact the LAS Team at the Muskie School of Public Service, University of Southern Maine, if you have any questions or problems accessing the online materials.