Story by Sarah Salmons

The University of Missouri College of Education & Human Development’s PK-12 educational leadership programs have earned national recognition for meeting the highest standards in preparing future school principals and superintendents. 

The National Educational Leadership Preparation (NELP) has recognized all three of Mizzou’s PK-12 educational leadership programs – the M.Ed. (PK-12 Principal), Ed.S. (PK-12 Principal), and Ed.S. (Superintendent).  

The core standards include: 

• Mission, Vision and Improvement: Developing and implementing a shared vision and continuous improvement 
• Ethics and Professional Norms: Cultivating a strong, ethical school culture 
• Equity, Inclusiveness and Cultural Responsiveness: Ensuring equitable access and inclusive practices for all students and staff 
• Learning and Instruction: Promoting high-quality curriculum, assessment and instruction 
• Community and External Leadership: Engaging families and the broader community 
• Operations and Management: Managing school operations, data and human resources 
• Policy and Advocacy (District-Level Only): Understanding district governance and advocating for system-wide needs 
• Internship: Engaging in authentic, sustained field experiences with a trained mentor 

The NELP standards serve as the foundation for evaluating educator preparation programs through the Council for the Accreditation of Educator Preparation (CAEP). 

“This national recognition is important because it matters for our students,” said Bradley Curs, Chair of the ELPA program. “Aspiring principals and superintendents who choose Mizzou can be confident they’re entering programs rigorously vetted against the highest national standards, and the school districts that hire our graduates can share that confidence.” 

The recognition reflects the college’s ongoing commitment to preparing educational leaders who are equipped to improve schools and strengthen communities across Missouri and beyond. 

With this achievement, the college now holds national recognition for both its PK-12 Educational Leadership and School Counseling preparation programs. 

Last year, the School Counseling program earned national recognition from the American School Counselor Association, becoming one of only a small number of school counselor preparation programs in the nation to receive the distinction.  

Together, these recognitions underscore the college’s commitment to preparing highly qualified educators and leaders who are ready to meet the evolving needs of schools and students.