Overview
This rigorous and selective one-year fellowship program assists heads of Christian schools in refining the executive skills necessary for school management in the current competitive climate. Through case studies, reading, writing, interactive exercises, small group discussions, a school based project, and coaching, participants will deepen their own leadership, develop skills essential to the tasks of headship, and create deep relationships with peers and leaders.

Format
In a dynamic setting with experts and peers, the Van Lunen Fellows Program strikes a balance between time away from school and school-based application of management principles. The year-long program begins with five residential days in July 2010, continues again in January for four days, and ends with three days in July 2011. Between sessions, coaching and support are available via phone and online tools.

Location and Dates
Three residential sessions occur in environments conducive to developing relationships, facing challenges, and thinking differently. From the beautiful stone fireplaces of the Prince Conference Center to the secluded desert grounds of the Franciscan Renewal Center, Fellows and faculty will find space for important conversations, options for recreation, and the ability to stay connected through state-of-the-art technology.
July 11–16, 2010: Prince Conference Center, Grand Rapids, Michigan
January 10–14, 2011: Franciscan Renewal Center, Scottsdale, Arizona
July 12–15, 2011: Prince Conference Center, Grand Rapids, Michigan

Participants
The Fellows program is designed for Christian school heads from the United States or Canada who either have been in their current position at least one full year before the Van Lunen Fellows Program begins or have been a head of school with less than 10 years of experience in their current school situation. Twenty-four heads will be selected as Van Lunen Fellows. International applicants will also be considered.

Tuition and Fees
The Fellows program is funded by the Van Lunen Foundation. For the Fellows class of 2010-2011, the estimated value of the program is $7,500. The participant program fee is $1,500. Funding by the Foundation combined with the participant program fee will cover all participant expenses, including cost of instruction, travel, lodging, meals, coaching, and access to topic experts. Financial aid related to the participant fee is available. Title II funds for professional development are all legally available in the U.S. for private school leaders. Check details through your corresponding public school district.
Financial aid related to the participant fee is available. Title II funds for professional development are all legally available in the U.S. for private school leaders. Check details through your corresponding public school district.

Application Deadline
The application period for the 2010–2011 Fellowships begins in October 2009 and will end on February 15, 2010.