Your Path to the Principalship — Online, Flexible, and Financially Supported
Led by one of the nation’s top public universities
The Wisconsin Idea Principal Preparation Program is proud to partner with select school districts to support the next generation of school leaders. Through this partnership, eligible educators may receive an $8,000 tuition scholarship toward the Wisconsin Idea Principal Preparation Program for the 2026-2027 academic year. A limited number of scholarships are available.
This opportunity is designed for experienced, motivated educators who are ready to grow into impactful school leadership roles — with the encouragement and support of their district.
This scholarship reflects a shared commitment between UW–Madison and participating districts to invest in leadership development and long-term district capacity.
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Partnership Scholarship Overview
Tuition Reduction
$8,000
Number of Scholarships
Each partner district may recommend a limited number of candidates for scholarship consideration
Time Frame
Valid for the cohort starting in June 2026. The final application deadline for the Wisconsin Idea Principal Preparation Program (WIPP) is April 15.
Eligibility
Candidates must be recommended by the district partner and be eligible for admission to the WIPP and the Graduate School.
District Partners
- Green Bay Area Public School District
- Kenosha Unified School District
For more information about this scholarship, please contact:
Tina Salzman, PhD
Program Director
tmsalzman@wisc.edu
608-263-2773
Who Should Apply
This opportunity is ideal for teachers who:
- Are currently employed in a partner school district
- Demonstrate leadership potential and interest in school administration
- Aspire to become principals or school leaders
- Are ready to begin the Principal Preparation Program in 2026–2027
- Are willing to seek district nomination for the partnership scholarship
If you are passionate about leading schools, supporting students and staff, and shaping the future of education, this program is designed for you.
Next Steps for Interested Educators
- Learn more about the Wisconsin Idea Principal Preparation Program (WIPP).
- Fill out the form shared above to learn about the specific selection process in your district.
- Follow your district’s process to be considered for one of the scholarship nominations.
- Prepare and submit your application to the Principal Preparation Program by April 15.
Why choose this master’s degree
Wisconsin Principal Licence: Graduates are eligible to apply for Wisconsin principal licensure (WI 5051). Participants can also pursue the Director of Curriculum and/or Director of Special Education and Pupil Services licensure (two courses each plus field experience).
Flexible & Accessible Online Program: Our flexible online course format is designed to accommodate working professionals, allowing students to pursue their education from anywhere in the country while balancing their career demands.
Equity Focus: The program empowers educational leaders with advanced equity-focused knowledge and practical skills to create and sustain socially just schools for all students.
Accelerated Format: The program is 15 months long and can be completed in just four semesters, starting in June and finishing in August next year.
High Quality: Learn from world-class faculty in the #1 ranked School of Education, home to the nation’s #2 Online Master’s in Educational Administration program (U.S. News & World Report, 2024).
Strong Community: Students move through the program as a cohort. This structure allows students to build their professional network and lasting relationships.
