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Great Start Cohort 2026-27: Session 6

Session 6 of 9

Wednesday, December 2, 2026
9:00 AM - 10:30 AM (CST)

Join Us Virtually

MASA Great Start Cohort

A nine-session workshop series for new superintendents and new Minnesota leaders

MASA is committed to providing excellent professional development that supports administrators in their professional practice. Great Start Cohort members will have the opportunity to:

  • Connect with other new leaders across Minnesota
  • Learn from seasoned superintendents and expert presenters
  • Build practical, job-ready skills for the first year in a new role
  • Address real challenges of a new superintendency alongside peers in similar situations

Whether you’re a first-time superintendent or an experienced superintendent who is new to Minnesota, this nine-session series is a valuable way to build confidence, community, and a strong start.

Please encourage any new superintendents and administrators to register for the MASA Great Start Cohort!


Registration & Cost

Because of the generous support of Ehlers, the full nine-session cohort is offered for $649.

Pricing includes:

  • Continental breakfast, lunch, and beverages for full-day sessions

Important registration policies:

  • The price will not be prorated for missed sessions
  • Participants may not register for individual sessions
  • You must be a Minnesota Association of School Administrators (MASA) member to attend

➡️ Register today to reserve your seat!


2026–2027 Session Dates & Locations

Session 1 — July 15, 2026
8:00-4:00 pm • Quora Education Center

Session 2 — August 5, 2026
8:00-4:00 pm • Marriott NW Minneapolis

Session 3 — September 27, 2026 (during the Fall Conference)
8:00-4:00 pm • Madden’s on Gull Lake

Session 4 — October 28, 2026 (including the Finance Academy)
8:00-4:00 pm • Quora Education Center

Session 5 — November 18, 2026 (including the Finance Academy)
8:00-4:00 pm • Quora Education Center

Session 6 — December 2, 2026 
9:00-10:30 am • Virtual

Session 7 — December 16, 2026 (including the Finance Academy)
8:00-4:00 pm • Quora Education Center

Session 8 — March 17, 2027 (during the Spring Conference)
8:00-4:00 pm • Marriott (Marriott NW Minneapolis)

Session 9 — April 21, 2027
8:00-4:00 pm • Quora Education Center

Anthony Aafedt
Anthony Aafedt Superintendent Wabasso Public Schools
Tim Anderson
Tim Anderson Superintendent Northfield Public Schools
Karla Beck
Karla Beck Superintendent Madelia Public Schools
Julie Beddow-Schubert
Julie Beddow-Schubert Superintendent Benson Public Schools
Greg Cole
Greg Cole Superintendent Anoka Hennepin School District
Corinna Erickson
Corinna Erickson Superintendent Lac qui Parle Valley Schools
Gregory Hexum
Gregory Hexum Superintendent Esko Public Schools
John-Paul R Jacobson
John-Paul R Jacobson Superintendent Forest Lake Area Schools
Guy Johnson
Guy Johnson Superintendent Stewartville Public Schools
Darren Kern
Darren Kern Interim Superintendent Le Sueur-Henderson School District
Ryan T Krominga
Ryan T Krominga Superintendent Pillager Public Schools
Tara Lere
Tara Lere Superintendent South Koochiching Rainy River Public Schools
Jennifer Mahan-Deitte
Jennifer Mahan-Deitte Superintendent ACGC Schools
Eric Martinez
Eric Martinez Superintendent Sibley East Public Schools
Angi McAndrews
Angi McAndrews Superintendent Houston Public Schools
Arthur Meyer
Arthur Meyer Superintendent/PK-4 Principal Rothsay Public Schools
Peyton Mills
Peyton Mills Superintendent Renville County West School District School District
Heidi J Nistler
Heidi J Nistler Superintendent SW Metro Intermediate District 288-06
Jefferson Tietje
Jefferson Tietje Superintendent LeRoy Ostrander Public Schools
Robb Virgin
Robb Virgin Superintendent Wayzata Public Schools

Who Should Attend

This cohort is designed for:

  • First-time superintendents
  • Superintendents new to Minnesota
  • New district leaders/administrators seeking practical support and a strong professional network

If you are navigating a new leadership role this year, this cohort is for you.


What You’ll Gain

Participants can expect a supportive, practical experience focused on:

  • Real-world leadership tools and strategies
  • Peer learning and problem-solving
  • Guidance from experienced superintendents
  • Stronger readiness for the responsibilities and pace of the first year

Cancellation Policy

Cancellations received on or before July 8, 2026 will receive a refund minus a $75 cancellation fee. No refunds will be issued after this date.