The Education Service Center Region 13 Texas Superintendents’ Certification Institute (TSCI) prepares future school leaders to meet modern challenges through innovative educational leadership. TSCI offers a high-quality certification program for aspiring superintendents via non-traditional means, allowing participants to engage in leadership practicums or internships while managing demanding schedules and networking with peers.
TSCI’s statewide blended model includes:
Leadership Orientation
Texas Teacher and Principal Evaluation & Support Systems (T-TESS and T-PESS)
9 Canvas courses with embedded performance assessments
Self-study activities
Dyslexia, TBSI, and YMHFA training
District-based practicum/internship
Each Canvas course starts and ends on a designated Saturday. The curriculum, aligned with state standards and best practices, is designed by experienced superintendents and district leaders. The core courses are Ethical Leadership, Organizational Leadership and Development, Community Needs and Interests, District Culture, Budget and Resource Allocation, Implementing and Supporting Instruction, Human Capital Leadership, Political and Legal Issues, and Leading Operations to Support the Learning Environment.
Core Curriculum Courses:
Ethical Leadership
Organizational Leadership and Development
Community Needs and Interests
District Culture
Budget and Resource Allocation
Implementing and Supporting Instruction
Human Capital Leadership
Political and Legal Issues
Leading Operations to Support the Learning Environment
How to Become a Superintendent in Texas
Hold a master’s degree from an accredited university
Hold a Principal certificate or the equivalent issued by the TEA, another state, or country OR Complete the superintendent certificate application and been approved by the TEA to substitute managerial experience in lieu of a principal certificate
Successfully complete an approved superintendent educator preparation program
Pursuant to the Texas Education Code (TEC), § 22.083, all candidates must undergo a criminal history background check prior to employment as an educator. If you feel this is a concern and you have questions about eligibility for a Texas educator certificate, TEA staff may perform an evaluation for a non-refundable fee of $50.
Ready to Start Your Superintendent Certification Journey?
All admission steps must be completed no later than 2 weeks prior to the desired launch date.
Official Master's Transcripts (min. 3.0 GPA required)
Note: If your university master's transcripts include a pass/fail for your coursework and do not show a clear overall GPA number of 3.0 or higher, you must additionally submit an official GRE score report of 2.5 or higher to demonstrate equivalency of minimum GPA requirement.
Most recent educator evaluation
Valid principal or mid-level management certificate or approval letter for your application to substitute managerial experience in lieu of a principal certificate. You can find the linked PDF application with included submission instructions here. According to 19 TAC Chapter 242.20(5), applicants must have at least three creditable years of managerial experience in a school district leadership role. in each area of responsibility while employed in a public school district. This managerial experience must be within a school district setting—non-school district leadership experience is not considered for the purposes of this application. Please see FAQ for more information on the application requirements.
Service record (from Human Resources) showing credential years of managerial experience
Resume including campus/district level leadership experience
If you currently or previously served in the military, provide a Joint Services Transcript or equivalent for cohort specialists to review Joint Services Transcripts to determine if coursework aligns with certification preparation coursework for their specific certification area.
Participate in a 45-minute Zoom interview. TSCI staff will contact you to schedule this at the appropriate time.
Sarah Reuwsaat Educator Evaluation and Leadership Education Service Center, Region 13 5701 Springdale Road Austin, TX 78723
Official Master's transcripts must be unopened and may be sent directly via mail from the University via regular mail or electronic access to the leadership@esc13.txed.net email.
The application will not be processed until we have received all of the above-listed items and your application fee has been paid.
Transfers
Individuals wishing to transfer from another certification program must complete all steps of the application process. In addition, they must submit a TEA Candidate Transfer form with their online application. Transfer acceptance will be at the discretion of the ESC Region 13 certification program. If the candidate is indicated as a "finisher" in the previous program, please contact the program at leadership@esc13.txed.net. Candidates transferring from other programs must start ESC Region 13 certification program coursework from the beginning. Credit will not be given for coursework completed in another program.
Admission Schedule
You can start your journey at the start of any scheduled module, and if you apply now, you can start pursuing your superintendent certification within the next 6-8 weeks!
All admission steps must be completed no later than 2 weeks prior to the desired launch date.
Program Launch Dates
Admission Schedule
You can start your journey at the start of any scheduled module, and if you apply now, you can start pursuing your superintendent certification within the next 6-8 weeks!
All admission steps must be completed no later than 2 weeks prior to the desired launch date.
Below is the TSCI rolling admission schedule through the 2025-2026 school year.
April 5, 2025
May 17, 2025
June 28, 2025
August 2, 2025
August 30, 2025
October 4, 2025
November 8, 2025
December 13, 2025
January 24, 2026
March 7, 2026
April 25, 2026
June 13, 2026
July 18, 2026
August 29, 2026
Program Fees
Our comprehensive program is offered at a fixed price to include application, registration, and program fees. Note that all fees are non-refundable.
Participants may pay the $6,000 program costs in full, upfront, or pay in eight equal monthly payments of $750.00, beginning the month following the first module start day.
Texts, materials, the TExES exam fee, and certification fees are paid separately prior to completing the program.
Application Fee
$100 (Due at application)
Non-refundable
Registration Fee
$300 (Upon acceptance)
Non-refundable
Program Fee
$6,000
Textbooks
$200 (approximately)
Paid separately
TExES Fee
$131
Paid separately
Certification Fee
$78
Paid Separately
Financial Aid
If you have completed other ESC Region 13 Certification Programs (Educator Certification Program, Principal Certification Network), then you are eligible to have your $300 registration fee waived.
If your district is part of Region 13 ESC's HR Coop, students who are offered admission to the program will receive $50 off their registration fee.
Additionally, several loans are available but consult with TSCI staff prior to applying to ensure you request the exact amount. The program will not reimburse the candidate for overpayment.
A+ FCU Higher Education Loan: A+ Federal Credit Union offers a Personal Loan that could finance your program fees in full. If you are not already a member of A+ Federal Credit Union, please visit the membership page to join.
A+ Personal Loan: Borrow up to $50,000 with a low-rate personal loan from A+FCU with flexible terms of up to 84 months. For additional questions, contact: Zenda Bennett at 512-421-2805
College Access Loan Program: The College Access Loan Program provides alternative educational loans to Texas students enrolled in an alternative certification program who are unable to meet the cost of attendance. The CAL may be used to cover part or all of the student’s Expected Family Contribution (EFC); students do not have to demonstrate financial need. This loan program is part of the Hinson-Hazlewood College Student Loan Program administrated by the Texas Higher Education Coordinating Board (THECB). For more information, visit http://www.hhloans.com/.
Program Orientation
9 Core Curriculum Canvas Courses
Saturday Class and Mid-Point Zoom
Field Supervision & Leadership Coaching
Self-Study Activities
Supplemental Trainings
Superintendent Shadowing Hours and Leadership Experience Hours
TExES Practice Exam Session & Official Exam
Application Questions
Is it okay to submit transcripts from a university that only assigns a pass/fail and does not include a GPA number?
If your university master's transcripts include a pass/fail for your coursework and do not show a clear overall GPA number of 3.0 or higher, you must also submit an official GRE score report of 2.5 or higher to demonstrate equivalency of minimum GPA requirement. You must submit both your original Master's transcripts and your GRE for admission review.
What are the next steps once I have submitted my application and required documents?
After a review of your application and documents, a 45-minute virtual interview will be scheduled, and the Constructed Responses within your application will be scored using the Constructed Response Rubric.
How would I apply for the waiver to substitute managerial experience in place of holding principal certification?
The applicant must have a minimum of three years of experience as a district-level employee in all the following areas:
Supervising and/or appraising personnel: This must involve direct supervision or appraisal responsibilities, not merely participation in the appraisal process.
Leading district-wide initiatives or projects: Experience must extend beyond campus-level leadership.
Managing and/or developing a budget: Demonstrated responsibility in budget oversight or creation is required.
Will my application for a waiver in lieu of principal certification be approved if I include leadership experience outside of a school district?
According to 19 TAC Chapter 242.20(5), applicants must have at least three creditable years of managerial experience in a school district leadership role. in each area of responsibility while employed in a public school district. This managerial experience must be within a school district setting—non-school district leadership experience is not considered for the purposes of this application.
Program Questions
Can a participant take more than one module at a time?
No, only one module is offered per session.
If needed, could the participant take a break during the program?
This may be possible pending required support steps prior to program staff considering approval of an official hiatus. This option is discouraged due to the brevity of the program schedule overall as well as encouragement of continued connection with the cohort.
If the participant takes a break and misses a module, how long will it be before the module is offered again?
Approximately 12 months later.
Will university credit be given for any of the modules?
No, not at this time.
If someone already has university credit toward certification, can course credit take the place of any of the modules?
No, the model of preparation is unique and, therefore, requires completion of all TSCI content modules.
What if I have a concern about the program?
The Region 13 Educator Preparation Programs encourage stakeholders to discuss their concerns with appropriate program personnel who have the authority to address the concerns. Concerns should be expressed as soon as possible to allow early resolution at the lowest possible level. Informal resolution shall be encouraged. If this does not resolve your issue, please follow our formal complaint process. EPP Complaint Process and EPP Complaint Form
Can I find out more about Region 13’s TSCI program and how well it has been doing to prepare candidates for the superintendency?
Yes. See Financial Assistance recommended options in the Fees tab.
Superintendent Certification Questions
What is needed for the completion of a standard superintendent certificate?
Successful completion of all program requirements, including attending all face-to-face sessions, completing all assignments, paying all program fees, receiving a favorable recommendation from your school district, and passing the TExES Exam.
What skills are needed to be a School Administrator?
Becky Estrada has served in public education for 45 years and recently retired as the Chief Financial Officer for the Lackland Independent School District on Lackland Air Force Base in San Antonio. She is currently serving as the Chief Certification Officer at the Texas Association of School Business Officials. Becky has also earned the designation of Registered Texas School Business Administrator through TASBO.
Celina Estrada Thomas, Ph.D.
Dedicated to a life in public education, Dr. Celina Estrada Thomas served Texas public schools for 41 years. She retired from public education in August 2023 after serving as the superintendent of schools in Hutto ISD for the last six years of her career. She resides in Hutto, Texas, and serves as a TASA (Texas Association of School Administrators) Executive Coach, Executive Director for TALAS (Texas Association of Latin Administrators and Superintendents), and as an instructor for the Region 13 Superintendent Certification Program.
As superintendent of Hutto ISD, she organized and garnered enough community support to pass two of the largest bonds in the history of the district to keep up with growth demands. Hutto ISD is the 4th fastest-growing district in the central Texas area. Under her leadership, the district not only expanded and upgraded facilities, but she also increased the number of dual language campuses, expanded CTE and fine arts programs at the middle and high school levels, and increased college and career pathway opportunities.
Rhonda McWilliams, Ed.D.
Dr. Rhonda McWilliams has served in public schools in Texas for over 40 years. Prior to retirement in 2018, Rhonda was in Central Office leadership as Area Superintendent, Chief HR Officer, Director of Secondary Education, and Executive Director of Student Affairs in Fort Bend ISD, Pflugerville, and Alief ISDs. She is also an Adjunct Professor in the Department of Education at Concordia Texas University and a Field Supervisor for alternative certification candidates for ESC Region 13. Post-retirement, Dr. McWilliams has served as Interim Assistant Superintendent of HR in Waco ISD and in Hutto ISD; Hutto High School Principal in 2022-23; Interim Principal at Forbes MS in Georgetown ISD, and most recently as Interim Chief HR in Boerne ISD.
Charles E. Dupre, Ed.D., CPA, ACC
Dr. Charles Dupre is dedicated to supporting and developing leaders who are committed to leading with authenticity, integrity and vulnerability. A recognized and award-winning leader in the education sector, he served as superintendent of Fort Bend ISD and Pflugerville ISD and is known for building and leading high-performing teams.
Dupre currently serves the Texas Association of School Administrators (TASA) as Deputy Executive Director for Member Engagement and Support, where he has designed and launched programs to support member well-being and leadership development. He is also a professional executive coach credentialed by the International Coaching Federation (ICF). During 26 years as a leader in public education, Dupre served as an internal auditor, budget officer, CFO, and deputy superintendent before his 15-year tenure as superintendent. Previously, Dupre enjoyed a successful season of his career as an auditor and accountant in the energy sector.
Henry Gideon
Henry Gideon retired from public education after 34 years in June of 2024. He most recently served Hutto ISD as the Assistant Superintendent for Operations, where he led and directed the district’s operational and support departments: Transportation; Child Nutrition, Facilities Maintenance; Energy Management; Emergency Operations Planning; Health and Safety; Facilities Planning & Construction Management; Real Property & Land Use Planning; Long Range & Strategic Planning; Demographics/Zoning; and Technology. His K-12 experience in Operations also included service as the Chief Operations Officer for both Bastrop and Boerne ISD.
Steve Snell
Steve Snell is the newly appointed Judge of Williamson County.
Steve Snell recently retired from education after 31 years. During those 31 years, he served the districts of Amarillo, Brazosport, Hutto, Longview Spring Hill, and Liberty Hill ISD. He has served as teacher, principal, assistant superintendent, and superintendent, finishing the last 6 and a half years in Liberty Hill. His family includes his wife Amy of 29 years, daughter Madison and son Will.
As the superintendent of Liberty Hill ISD, Mr. Snell led one of the fastest growing schools districts in Texas with purpose and conservative values, supervising over $1Billion in construction projects. Over his 6 years as superintendent of Liberty Hill, his students have competed at the highest state level in UIL academic competitions, state marching band championships, and agriculture. During his time is Liberty Hill, the students of LHISD earned 11 medals in team athletics with the Liberty Hill Panthers playing in the state championship games in football, volleyball, girls and boys basketball and girls and boys soccer all while being one of the highest academic performing districts in the state.
Last year he was named the Region 13 Superintendent of the Year for his accomplishments. In addition to serving as superintendent, he has previously served on the Hutto Area Chamber of Commerce Board, the Liberty Hill Economic Development Corporation, Texas Association of School Administrators Executive Board and the Lone Star Investment Pool Board of Directors.
Snell was chosen for County Judge for his leadership qualities, vast experience leading large organizations, and solid reputation as a leader of integrity and vision.
Dr. Tiffany T. Spicer
Dr. Tiffany T. Spicer joined the Waco Independent School District in October 2024 after more than 20 years of service in public education. She is an educator passionate about equity and access for all students, ensuring they are prepared to reach their fullest potential.
Dr. Spicer’s career as an educator has included teaching in both general education and special education classrooms, and serving in several roles as a campus administrator including Assistant Principal, Associate Principal, Middle School Principal and High School Principal.
After campus leadership, she transitioned to central office and has assumed such roles as Executive Director, Assistant Superintendent, Chief of Staff, and most recently served as Superintendent of Buna Independent School District. Spicer's leadership experience includes fast-growth districts, large suburban districts, and rural districts, going through both change and transition. Spicer has served districts ranging from 1,500 students to 40,000 students and has a measured track record of success in serving all student populations.
In her role as Superintendent, Dr. Spicer has led with intentionality and implemented a comprehensive strategic plan designed to strengthen academic achievement, prioritize fiscal responsibility, and enhance safety and security. She is committed to building a culture of excellence rooted in high expectations, shared leadership, and continuous improvement. Her work reflects a deep understanding of district leadership that emphasizes equity and data-informed decision-making.
Dr. Spicer attended the University of Texas where she obtained her Bachelor of Social Work, Texas State University-San Marcos for her Masters in Educational Leadership, and Texas A&M University for her Doctorate of Philosophy. She is the proud mother of two adult daughters and enjoys serving her community, exercising for self-care and blogging to share her journey.
Dr. Spicer’s personal and professional work can be summarized by this quote ”Your smile is your logo, your personality is your business card, how you leave others feeling after an experience with you becomes your trademark.” ~Jay Danzie
Follow Dr. Spicer on X @DrTiffanySpicer.
Sarah Reuwsaat, TSCI Program Coordinator
Sarah Reuwsaat originally began her career in education as a teacher and coach at Amphitheater High School in Tucson, Arizona. She then transitioned to the state of Texas working as teacher, Instructional Administrator, and Principal in Del Valle Independent School District. Sarah Reuwsaat is a proud Region 13 ESC Principal Certification Network alumni. She joined the Region 13 Education Service Center team in 2017 to coordinate and support both the principal (PCN) and superintendent (TSCI) alternative certification programs. She is proud to have led the effort to maintain and grow and rigorous and relevant superintendent training program with 100% pass rate on the TExES (195) exam that truly prepares leaders in the program to be in the seat now or whenever the opportunity arises.
Richard Kolek
Richard Kolek is a highly experienced educator and administrator with over three decades of service in education. He is known for his strong communication, relationship-building, and problem-solving skills, which have enabled him to inspire and lead both individuals and teams to success. Richard began his career as a teacher, quickly earning a reputation for his dedication to student success, his ability to make complex ideas accessible, and his commitment to creating an inclusive, supportive classroom environment. His passion for teaching extended to coaching, where he helped students develop discipline, teamwork, and perseverance, further honing his leadership abilities.
Richard’s transition into school administration was a natural progression, with his exceptional communication and relationship-building skills making him a standout leader. As a principal, he focused on enhancing school culture, supporting teachers, and ensuring high-quality education for students. Later, as superintendent, he oversaw multiple schools and fostered collaboration among educators, parents, and the community, leading to significant improvements in academic performance and school climate. Richard currently lives in the Hill Country with his wife, Tisha, and their two children. Outside of work, he enjoys exploring new places and spending time outdoors with family and friends.
Info Videos
Blended Coursework
TExES
Field Supervision and Leadership Coaching
Supplemental Trainings
Self-Study Assignments
Superintendent Shadowing and District Leadership Experience Hours
Earn your superintendent certificate in one year
Apply online to TSCI to begin the program on the next module.
