The Center for Administrator Prep

Dear CAP Community,

November offers an opportunity to reflect on the people and practices that sustain our work. I am grateful to our candidates, coaches, instructors, and partners for their commitment to leadership development, which strengthens schools and creates opportunities for students.

One of our most important responsibilities as leaders is to create effective systems that can be sustained over time. Clear communication, shared responsibilities, consistent routines, and meaningful use of data help turn our vision into daily practice. When thoughtfully designed, these systems support staff, reduce uncertainty, and keep student learning at the center of our decisions.

Sustainable systems also require shared ownership. Involving those closest to the work, documenting processes, and regularly reviewing what works help improvements endure through transitions and changing demands. An equity lens calls us to ask: Who is benefiting from this system? Whose needs are being overlooked? What adjustments would improve access and outcomes?

This month, I encourage you to reflect on one system within your sphere of influence. Consider how you might simplify a process, clarify expectations, or build others' capacity to carry the work forward. Small, intentional improvements can create lasting impact.

Thank you for the care, expertise, and dedication you bring to your leadership. We are grateful to be part of your journey and to support the meaningful work you do each day.

Warm regards,
Gwendolyn Green
Director, Center for Administrator Preparation

Heather Conkle brings more than three decades of experience in public education to our PASC instructor team, along with a commitment to student achievement and leadership development. She began her career in 1995 as an English teacher and coach at Serrano High School, later serving in administrative roles at Piñon Mesa Middle School and Serrano High School. For the past 14 years, she has served as Principal of Silverado High School in Victorville.

Heather was named the 2015 ACSA Region 12 Secondary Principal of the Year and the 2026 Victor Valley Union High School District Management Employee of the Year. Her experience includes ACSA regional leadership, WASC accreditation, Title IX investigations, labor negotiations, and strategic planning.

As a PASC instructor, Heather shares practical insight and a passion for supporting aspiring administrators. We appreciate her contributions to the CAP team and her commitment to preparing reflective, confident, and student-centered educational leaders.

Stepping into my new role as Assistant Principal at Acacia Middle School in Hemet Unified School District has been an exciting next chapter in my leadership journey. The PASC program helped prepare me for this opportunity by strengthening my leadership skills, challenging me to think beyond my previous role, and giving me the confidence to lead with purpose. What I enjoy most is building meaningful connections with students and staff while learning about and contributing to the culture of my new school community. For those pursuing their administrative credential or still waiting for the right opportunity, stay encouraged and trust the process. Every experience is preparing you for the moment when preparation and opportunity meet.

Explore your next steps in educational leadership with the Center for Administrator Preparation (CAP). Join an upcoming informational meeting to learn about our Preliminary Administrative Services Credential (PASC) program, including our new Intern Pathway, or our Clear Administrative Services Credential (CASC) program.

Meetings are held via Zoom on scheduled Thursday afternoons from 3:30–4:30 p.m. Learn about program requirements, explore the application process, and get your questions answered.

Visit our program information meeting schedule to find a session that works for you. We look forward to connecting with you!

Click here to learn more!

PASC (traditional and Intern Pathway)

CASC

CAP Office Closed -Thanksgiving Holiday

November 26 - 27, 2026

7:30 - 5:00 p.m.