MA in School Leadership Welcomes the Newest Cohort

Baylor University's Master of Arts in School Leadership (MASL) program is thrilled to announce the commencement of cohort four's journey into educational leadership. After completing their first immersive week and on the precipice of diving into their faith class, cohort four is set to embark on a transformative educational experience. Concurrently, cohort three has just returned for their final class, poised to graduate in December.

The kickoff for cohort four was nothing short of inspiring. Starting their week at the prestigious Baylor Club, they engaged in activities designed to foster camaraderie and teamwork, including tackling escape rooms to hone their collaborative skills. Additionally, they were warmly welcomed into the homes of professors, embracing the #baylorfamily spirit.

“I just finished my twelfth year of teaching, and to be honest with you, at the end of it, I was ready to get out,” said Mindy Beaty, a fourth-grade math and science teacher at Temple ISD. “When I got here, I was nervous, and I was thinking this was going to be just another master’s program. It’s not. It’s a family that has restored my faith in education, and the part of me that wanted out is gone. I will be in it for the long haul.”

Yesterday marked a significant moment as the two cohorts converged at the Mayborn Museum for a dinner with both their peers and esteemed professors. This occasion exemplified the sense of community and support that defines Baylor's School Leadership program. Cohort three members shared advice with cohort four as they welcomed them into the fold.

Alquin Spencer, an assistant principal at YES Prep Public Schools, encouraged the new cohort to soak it in and not to rush it. 

“You can either go to grad school or you can go to grad school and grow,” Spencer said. “You are on the verge of excellence, you are on the verge of growing up and becoming wonderful, marvelous, and majestic. I want you to know that when the faculty say they prayed over you, they really have. Because of what they sow, generations will reap.”

Baylor's MA in School Leadership program stands out for its Christ-centered approach and hybrid format, offering flexibility that empowers leaders to excel in their roles. 

Key Jackson, a special education teacher for Midway ISD, said she found herself completely in wonder during this first week of the immersion. 

“I wasn’t expecting the spiritual impact from this week. I have always been very steady in my faith, but I have been completely outdone this week,” Jackson said. “All I can say is wonder. Lord that you would have people who would be image-bearers in education is the most beautiful thing, and to see His glory worked out in this way. I’m just grateful to walk alongside kingdom builders and image-bearers.” 

With two tracks tailored for Christian leaders seeking either Texas principal certification or leadership roles in other states or independent schools, they are dedicated to equipping each student for success.

“This program has absolutely changed my life and my leadership, and I believe all of cohort three would say the same,” said Kim Poe, Director of Faith and Culture at Saint Augustine Preparatory Academy in Wisconsin.

For more information about Baylor University's MA in School Leadership program and to apply, please visit https://maschoolleadership.soe.baylor.edu/. Prospective students are encouraged to apply now and join cohort five, commencing in the summer of 2025.