The School Leaders Retreat is designed to support school leaders who serve high-needs schools in the region through collaboration, networking, and professional development. This dynamic environment fosters peer-to-peer relationships and creates opportunities for school leaders to share insights, strategies, and best practices that can be implemented throughout the year.
2026 Program Highlights
The theme for 2026 is Power of Place, exploring adaptive leadership, joy, and school innovation in the heart of our city. By participating, school leaders will engage in meaningful discussions with local education experts, reflect on their successes and challenges, and strategize plans for the upcoming year, surrounded by a supportive peer network. This program will help you grow as a leader, develop actionable plans for your school, and create lasting connections with fellow educators.
“The Retreat gave me the rare opportunity to slow down, reflect deeply, and be reminded that joy, connection, and academic excellence can, and should, coexist.”
-2025 Retreat Participant
2026 Retreat Details
June 29- July 2, 2026
St. Louis, MO
Attendees will participate in meaningful and action-oriented programming, build networks and collaborate with their peers, engage in both reflection and forward planning, and rest.
Each attendee will receive a $2,500 participation stipend, plus a $7,500 Implementation Grant to kick start an innovative project in the upcoming school year.
Eligibility and Application Process
Participation is open to current building principals in at least their 2nd year, returning to the same role next year. Applicants must be able to commit to attending all retreat dates, attending quarterly gatherings throughout the year on evenings or weekends, and obtain a letter of support from their current supervisor.
A small number of applicants will be invited for virtual interviews with STLCF Staff and Retreat facilitators in February and March 2026.
Participants will be notified if they have been selected to attend the Retreat no later than March 20, 2026.
Still Have Questions?
Contact us to learn more.
Renata Bule
Assistant Director of Youth Connections St. Louis Community Foundationrbule@stlgives.org314-880-49672025 Recap Video
Church Productions, 2025
2025 Recap Video by Church Productions