Learning Partners Program

Mentorship at every stage of your career. Whether you're stepping into a new role or navigating change, personalized support strengthens your leadership.

You Don't Have to Navigate District Leadership Alone

Personalized Mentorship for District Leaders, available to BCSSA members at every stage of their leadership journey

The Learning Partners Program pairs you with an experienced, retired superintendent or senior leader for confidential, one-to-one mentorship. Built on the principles of The Spirit of Leadership, this program supports you through transitions, new roles, and the unique challenges of district leadership in BC.

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What's Included?

A one-to-one professional relationship built on trust and self-reflection.

Regular, ongoing contact through various communication methods.
 
A mentor matched based on your needs, context, geography and expertise.
 
Exclusive pre-conference meetings focused on leadership and emerging issues.
 
Participation is confidential.
 
Program Investment: $1,200
*This fee to participate has been subsidized by the association

New to District Leadership?

You're stepping into a superintendent, assistant superintendent, or director role for the first time. The learning curve is steep and you need experienced guidance.

The Learning Partners Program gives you a mentor who's navigated exactly what you're facing. Get support building your leadership practice, addressing district-specific challenges, and growing into your role.

Ideal for:

  • Members in their first or second year in a new district leadership position.
  • Leaders navigating the transition from school-level to district-level work.
  • Those building foundational skills in their new role.

Experienced Leaders Seeking Support

You're an experienced leader facing a transition, new role, or specific challenges where mentorship would strengthen your practice.

The Learning Partners Program offers customized support designed around your current needs. Work with the Learning Partners Advisor to create a mentorship structure that addresses what you're navigating right now.

Ideal for:

  • Members who've recently changed roles or moved to a new district.
  • Leaders facing specific challenges and seeking experienced perspective.
  • Those wanting guidance on complex decisions or district issues.

Voices of the Learning Partners Program

Not convinced? Here's what some of our mentees have to say.

The Learner Partners Program provides an excellent foundation for Superintendent success as you are matched with a mentor who understands the nuances of the role. It is invaluable to have a go-to person outside of your own organization to provide advice, feedback and perspective. I would highly recommend being part of the program.
CourtneyNicola-Similkameen School District
Participation in the Learning Partner Program has been a foundational support throughout my leadership journey over the past two years. Having dedicated time to connect with and receive guidance from an experienced sector leader outside my district team has been incredibly valuable. While I am fortunate to have strong support and collaboration within my own district, the Learning Partner Program has provided a purposeful opportunity to gain new perspectives and reflect on leadership challenges in a different context. My learning partner and I connect for monthly check-ins, with additional as-needed conversations when specific challenges arise. They have also been a great coach and support—helping me reflect, gain perspective, and strengthen my leadership practice. I’ve encouraged all members of my team to take advantage of this meaningful program.
JamesPacific Rim School District
As a new superintendent, the BCSSA Learning Partner Program has been a steady source of guidance-offering thoughtful mentorship and a supportive network that helps me grow into this role with confidence.
Anita, Nechako Lakes School District
The Learning Partner Program" was an invaluable experience. Tom was always ready to answer any questions I had and shared a wealth of knowledge from his experience as a superintendent. I looked forward to every meeting with anticipation. It was a great professional development opportunity!
LoisBoundary School District

What This Program Supports

Building Equity and Inclusion Support leaders in creating equity-based, inclusive, culturally responsive districts and working towards Reconciliation.

Strengthening Leadership Capacity Develop your leadership vision, confidence, and capacity to support both student achievement and the growth of others.

Contextual Understanding Strengthen contextual literacy through exploration of common needs, emerging challenges, and district-specific issues.

Professional Community Create a safe space for self-assessment, candid feedback, and connection with colleagues facing similar challenges.

Ready to find out more?

Our Learning Partners Advisor will be pleased to provide additional information on the type of mentorship structure available. Please contact us if you are interested in participating.

Questions About the Program?
Phone: (604) 687-0590
Email: information@bcssa.org

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