The Diverse Leaders Fellowship (DLF) is a year-long leadership development experience designed for aspiring and current diverse school administrators in Los Angeles County. Developed in partnership with LACOE, the fellowship equips leaders to advance culturally responsive school leadership practices and drive systemic change.
12-Month Fellowship
Tuition- and Fee-Free
Grounded in the Culturally Responsive School Leadership Framework
Preliminary Administrative Credential Support
Includes School Leader of Color Network Membership
OUR MISSION
DLI seeks to create equitable outcomes for students by building a movement of racially diverse and culturally competent public education leaders. The fellowship supports leaders in understanding how identity shapes leadership and in disrupting inequitable systems in K–12 education.
Download Program OverviewWHAT FELLOWS EXPERIENCE
DLI seeks to create equitable outcomes for students by building a movement of racially diverse and culturally competent public education leaders. The fellowship supports leaders in understanding how identity shapes leadership and in disrupting inequitable systems in K–12 education.
Learning Format
- Asynchronous coursework
- Up to 15 in-person Saturday sessions
- 6 virtual sessions
- Los Angeles County-based learning
Practice-Based Learning
- Simulations and role plays
- Job-embedded assignments
- Fellow leadership project
Mentorship & Credentialing
- Mentorship
- Credential submission coordinator
- CalAPA coaching
Who This Fellowship Is Designed For
We seek equity-driven leaders who:
- Possess a bold K–12 vision for empowering students and families
- Are committed to developing their critical consciousness
- Champion culturally responsive teaching and inclusive school environments
- Collaborate meaningfully with students and communities
Fellows must be current employees in participating districts.
To ensure fellows are well-positioned to succeed in the program and advance into school leadership roles, applicants must meet the following eligibility requirements.
Employment Requirements
Applicants must be employed in one of the participating districts at the time of application and must remain employed in a qualifying district throughout the duration of the fellowship.
Credential Requirements
Applicants must hold a valid Clear or Life California Teaching Credential that includes an English Learner Authorization, or an eligible California services credential.
Experience Requirements
Applicants must have at least five years of qualifying professional experience in education.
Basic Skills Requirement
Applicants must meet the Basic Skills Requirement as specified by California Education Code Section 44252(b).
Tuition & Fees
The Diverse Leaders Fellowship is completely tuition- and fee-free through the Diverse Education Leadership Pipeline Initiative.
Required Commitment
Fellows accepted into the program commit to earning a Preliminary Administrative Services Credential. Participants must fulfill a two-year service requirement within a qualifying school and complete annual reporting requirements. Fellows must also maintain consistent attendance, with only one absence permitted for the duration of the program.
Key Dates
The fellowship application and selection process follows a structured timeline. Key dates for the 2027 cohort are outlined below.
Application Opens
Dec 15, 2025
Pre-Application Deadline
May 8, 2026
Interview Invitations
May 2026
Fellow Interviews
June 2026
Final
Selection
June 2026
Program Begins
January 2027
Frequently Asked Questions
What if I relocate?
Fellows must remain employed within one of the participating districts during the program. If a fellow relocates outside of Los Angeles County or leaves a participating district, they may no longer be eligible to continue in the fellowship.
Do I need to remain employed?
Yes. Fellows must remain employed in a qualifying TK–12 district, charter school, or County Office of Education throughout the duration of the fellowship.
Can I reapply?
Yes. If you are not selected for the fellowship, you are encouraged to reapply for a future cohort.
Who do I contact?
For additional information or questions about the program, please contact fellowship@diversityinleadership.org.
Lead With Purpose. Apply Today!
Applications closes May 8, 2026.