Teachers with strong records in the classroom and an interest in school leadership are being urged to apply for the Emerging Leaders Program that will start next school year in Hawaii.

"This is for people who have proven their effectiveness in the classroom and aspire to become school principals," said Julie Wright, executive director of the Chamberlin Family Foundation, a program sponsor. "It is an opportunity to lead and create change at your school site. You don’t go off to a university. You’re actually practicing every day within the context of your school."

The national program is intended to help talented teachers expand their impact beyond the students in their classrooms. It includes in-person sessions on some Saturdays during the school year, on-site visits, coaching and "rigorous feedback." Participants lead a small team of teachers at their school and share what they are learning, she said.

The free program is open to teachers with three years of experience and a record of significant results with their students. Even those who have completed the Teacher Leader Academy will find it valuable, Wright said.

A supervisor must submit a recommendation on behalf of applicants. Administrators are encouraged to nominate outstanding teachers.

Up to 35 teachers in public schools in Hawaii will be selected for the pilot, which begins at the start of the school year. The program is also sponsored by the state Department of Education and the Harold K.L. Castle Foundation.

It was developed by the national nonprofit, New Leaders, based in New York City, and operates in several cities.

Applications and more information are available at www.newleaders.org or via email to emergingleaders@newleaders.org. Online information sessions are being offered weekly, with registration through the website. The application deadline is June 20.