Philadelphia School Leaders Selected for Instructional Leadership Academy

Opportunity Network Leaders Recognized in Instructional Leadership Academy Cohort 3

Philadelphia education leaders Jaleeca Jacobs, principal of Excel Middle Years Academy, and Diana Abellard, executive director of Philadelphia Continuation Academy, joined Cohort 3 of the Instructional Leadership Academy (ILA). This year-long program helps principals strengthen instruction, equity, and student achievement across Philadelphia.

Only 23 leaders citywide were invited. For the first time, Opportunity Network leaders, who support and evaluate schools, joined. Their selection highlights both personal accomplishments and growing recognition of Opportunity Network schools, which serve students with behavioral challenges.

“Their participation marks a milestone for our school leaders, affirming that their voices, perspectives, and guidance are essential to shaping the future of education in Philadelphia,” said Jennifer Green M. Ed, regional director, Region 1, Specialized Education Services, Inc.

Philadelphia Education Leaders Share Voices of Pride and Responsibility

For Jacobs, the invitation represents both pride and responsibility.

“Personally, it is a moment of extreme pride and gratitude. It confirms the commitment, passion, and perseverance I have displayed serving students, families, and communities that are often underrepresented,” she said. “Professionally, this represents an incredible opportunity to grow as a leader and to bring the perspective and experiences of the Opportunity Network into conversations. It is not only a recognition of our work but also a responsibility to pave a way for others who will come after me.”

Abellard echoed the transformative nature of the opportunity.

“Education leadership is my life’s passion. Being among Cohort 3 and experiencing a shared vision of instructional programming felt both affirming and inspiring,” she said. “This is an amazing opportunity to go from a program traditionally focused on compliance and behavior to instructional rigor. While I am not naïve to the fact that change is difficult, I am eager to pioneer this vision work for my school and region.”

About the Instructional Leadership Academy Program in Philadelphia

Now in its third year, the ILA is led by Principal Supervisors and Leadership (PASL) of the School District of Philadelphia, in partnership with Achievement Network (ANet). The program provides principals with workshops, executive coaching, and hands-on opportunities to apply learning directly in their schools. Leaders develop skills in data-driven instruction, feedback systems, organizational clarity, and collaborative professional learning communities.

Professional Learning and Leadership Development for School Improvement

Cohort 3 began with a two-day kickoff in September, focusing on community-building, leadership strategies, and core instructional priorities. Over the year, leaders will engage in seven professional development sessions, executive coaching, learning walks, and collaborative planning, to drive measurable school improvement.

Looking Ahead: Equity, Student Growth, and Stronger Instructional Leadership

Both Jacobs and Abellard left the kickoff with renewed clarity and purpose.

“Being in a room with 22 other principals and leaders reinforced that our contexts may differ, but our challenges and aspirations are connected,” said Jacobs. “Leadership is about building trust, collaboration, and accountability networks that can drive change.”

As the year-long academy continues, both leaders are eager to share their learning with colleagues, strengthen instructional practices, and build a culture of high expectations across their schools.