The Vermont Principals Association
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The Academy is designed for Vermont school leaders to connect with another for networking, rejuvenation, and to engage in professional learning. Many districts and supervisory unions bring their administrative teams, while others come in small groups or as individuals. No matter if you are a longterm attendee or an aspiring school leader who wants to learn more–your time will be well spent at the 2025 VPA Leadership Academy!


Session DescriptionsSpeaker Bios2025 Academy ScheduleRegistration

Killington Resort

(Please call Killington lodging for reservations 1-800-282-9955)


Rehema Ellis headshot
Tuesday Morning Keynote
Rehema Ellis

Rehema Ellis is NBC News’ Chief Education Correspondent, reporting across platforms including NBC Nightly News, Today, MSNBC, and NBC News Now. A distinguished journalist, she has earned numerous awards, including local and national Emmys, Edward R. Murrow Awards, Associated Press honors, and recognition from the National Association of Black Journalists.

picture of 3 speakers, mike, q, lauren
Tuesday Afternoon Keynote Speakers
Building Community in Third Spaces

Presented by the VPA’s Dr. Lauren Young, and Athletic Directors Mike Jabour and Quaron Pinckney, discover how Vermont athletics and activities are at their best in our school communities when fostering belonging, pride, and resilience. Learn proven strategies to build a positive culture, navigate controversy, and create inclusive opportunities around the state.

Headshot of speaker, Jimmy Casas
Wednesday Morning Keynote
Jimmy Casas

Jimmy Casas, an educator for over 30 years, served 22 years as a school leader, including 14 as Principal. He authored 10 books, including the best-sellers Culturize and Recalibrate the Culture. His latest book, Words on the Wall, is already a top seller on Amazon.

Dr. J headshot
Thursday Morning Keynote
Dr. Jacqueline Sanderlin

Dr. Jacqueline Sanderlin has over 30 years in education as a special education teacher, curriculum specialist, principal, district administrator, and executive director in LAUSD, Culver City, Compton, and Inglewood schools. She now serves large urban districts as National Leadership Executive Manager at Apple, focusing on innovative leadership.


Need a Team Room?

Team rooms are available to districts on a first come/first serve basis. There are breakout rooms available on Monday, 8/4, Thursday after 10am on 8/7, and Friday, 8/8. To reserve space, you have to contact Mallori directly at mlongevin@vpaonline.org. The reservations for these spaces go through the VPA during this week, not directly with Killington.



Cancellation Policy

  • For all Vermont Principals’ Association professional learning events, the VPA must be notified of any cancellations no later than 10 days prior to the event. Cancellation notifications received after the 10 day deadline will be subject to a fee of 50% of the total cost of registration.

The Academy is made possible by grant sponsorship support, thank you!