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Conference on English Leadership

A collaborative, dynamic, discussion-based forum for literacy leaders.

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CEL

Emerging Leaders Fellowship Program (ELF)

The Emerging Leaders Fellowship Program (ELF) provides leadership support, mentoring, and networking opportunities for early career leaders of language arts programs at the K–university levels.

This program works with new leaders to:

  • build the leadership capacity of emerging literacy leaders;
  • assist in the development of essential skills necessary for success in key leadership positions;
  • access timely information regarding literacy education and student learning;
  • facilitate change in schools and in professional communities; and
  • encourage interaction among leaders as members of a leadership group shaping the field of English education.

This program invites beginning leaders to collaborate with a mentor from a community of highly experienced English leaders and scholars whose own work can be enriched through engagement with new ideas and school contexts.

Fellows and mentors meet during the CEL Annual Convention in November and continue their work throughout the following year. Fellows and mentors receive complimentary CEL Annual Convention registration for the second year of their participation.

 

Emerging Leaders Participants

Application Deadline Extended: May 13, 2025

Application Process

Fellows are selected through a competitive application process. Applications are solicited at the beginning of each year with notifications in the summer.

Individuals should meet the following criteria:

  • hold current membership in NCTE and
  • serve as a current English leader (e.g., team leader, department chair, lead teacher, literacy coach,curriculum coordinator for English/language arts) at the K–university level who has been working in a new leadership position for 1–3 years.

Applications should include:

  • A statement of interest (300 word maximum) providing an overview of:
    • your current position and the challenges you face in this new(er) setting;
    • particular needs, interests, or areas of concerns that you have identified;
    • ways in which you feel this program will benefit you in your role as a literacy leader.
  • A professional letter or recommendation.
  • A letter of support from your district supervisor ensuring your availability to secure leave for the CEL Annual Convention in November 2025.
Application Form

 

Application Deadline Extended: May 13, 2025