2026-27 Program Details

This virtual learning series, comprised of eight sessions, is offered to newly appointed principals and vice-principals in Ontario. The program is founded on an inquiry-based approach through a reflective lens of human rights and equity. Each component of the program will enable participants to become more confident in their decision-making skills in various aspects of school leadership.

Through facilitated conversations, collaborative learning sessions and networking opportunities participants will explore challenges and opportunities as they transition and move through their first couple of years as a principal or vice-principal. Sessions may include guest speakers, engagement through case studies and unpacking of resources to support a positive and smooth transition along the leadership journey. 

Eligibility 

This program is open to newly appointed principals and vice-principals (up to three years in the role). There is a separate cohort for principals and vice-principals.

Schedule

 Principal Cohort

Sessions

Date and Time 

Topic 

Session 1

Saturday, September 26 

9:00 a.m.  – 12:00 p.m. 

The Principal Role and Leadership Identity
Session 2

Wednesday, October 14

3:45 p.m. – 5:15 p.m. 

 Finance and Managing Resources
Session 3

Saturday, November 21

9:00 a.m.  – 12:00 p.m. 

Instructional Leadership and School Improvement Planning
Session 4

Wednesday, January 20

3:45 p.m. – 5:15 p.m. 

 Proactive and Clear Communication through Challenge and Change
Session 5

Saturday, February 20

9:00 a.m.  – 12:00 p.m. 

Beyond Discipline: Human Rights and Safe Schools
Session 6

Wednesday, March 24

3:45 p.m. –  5:15 p.m.

 Managing Staff Relationships and Working with Unions
Session 7

Saturday, April 24

9:00 a.m. – 12:00 p.m. 

 Special Education: Ensuring Equitable Access for All Learners
Session 8

Wednesday, May 26

3:45 p.m. – 5:15 p.m. 

 Bias-aware Hiring
 Vice-principal Cohort

Sessions

Date and Time 

Topic 

Session 1

Saturday, September 19 

9:00 a.m.  – 12:00 p.m. 

The Vice-principal Role and Leadership Identity
Session 2

Wednesday, October 7

3:45 p.m. – 5:15 p.m. 

Knowing your Legal Responsibilities
Session 3

Saturday, November 14

9:00 a.m.  – 12:00 p.m. 

Bias-aware Investigations and Progressive Discipline
Session 4

Wednesday, January 13

3:45 p.m. – 5:15 p.m. 

 Setting Up a Documentation System
Session 5

Saturday, February 13 

9:00 a.m.  – 12:00 p.m. 

Performance Appraisals
Session 6

Thursday, March 25

3:45 p.m. –  5:15 p.m.

 Engaging in Difficult Conversations
Session 7

Saturday, April 17

9:00 a.m. – 12:00 p.m. 

 Using a Human Rights-based and Anti-oppressive Approach in Decision-making
Session 8

Wednesday, May 19

3:45 p.m. – 5:15 p.m. 

 Inclusive Education and Universal Design for Learning

Facilitators

Photo of Lindsey Diakiw

Lindsey Diakiw

Professional Learning Consultant, Ontario Principals' Council

Lindsey has been an educator and leader in Ontario schools for over 30 years. Lindsey has supported aspiring, new and experienced leaders build their skills as a co-chair of learning networks, as a mentor and coach, and as a centrally assigned principal in Leadership Development and Engagement. She has worked along side students, colleagues, parents, and families to increase engagement in school communities by creating space for student and family voice. Lindsey has recently joined OPC as a Professional Learning Consultant to continue her commitment to supporting education leaders in their growth and development. 

 Cost & Registration

NOTE - Members and Associates need to login first with their OPC# before clicking the registration button to receive the Member rate.

 Full Series (September to May)

Member and Associates: $495 + HST

Non-Members: $750 + HST

Includes eight sessions (sessions 1 to 8). Full payment is required for registration to be confirmed.

Register by:

  • Vice-principals - September 11, 2026
  • Principals - September 18, 2026
Principals  Vice-principals
 Half Series (February to May)

Member and Associates: $247.50 + HST

Non-Members: $375 + HST

Includes four sessions (sessions 5 to 8). Full payment is required for registration to be confirmed.

Register by:

  • Vice-principals - February 5, 2027
  • Principals - February 12, 2027

Registration opens August 15, 2026

  • A confirmation and a Zoom meeting link will be sent. 

  • There are no assessments or formal completion criteria for this program. Active participants will be issued a micro credential badge.

If you have any questions, feel free to contact learning@principals.ca. 

Terms and Conditions

 Refund Policy

Cancellation Date

Refund Amount
Up to two weeks before start date 

Full fee

minus $50 non-refundable
One week before start date $250
After start date $0

A full refund applies when the program is cancelled due to low enrollment.