The East Central Leadership Academy opened at Salado Elementary in 2019 with grades K-5. The school offers a unique learning experience for students through a Project-Based Learning model that incorporates blending technology and classroom instruction. Service learning, career exploration, and leadership development are the cornerstones of the academy.

The East Central Leadership Academy integrates content and learning in projects. Students apply what they learn in real-world opportunities, serving the community and learning from external partners. Students participate in one hour club time per week. Clubs are based on student interests. Students engage in technology rich lesson and have opportunities to digitally connect with students from all over the world.

The East Central Leadership Academy is seeking interested students who enjoy designing, creating, innovative experiences and engaging challenges. The academy student should achieve an attendance rate of 96% current and ongoing, and have satisfactory conduct. The expectation is that students must achieve and maintain an 80% passing average or greater in core courses - Reading, Math, Science, and Social Studies.

Who should apply?

Incoming Kindergarten through 5th grade students who reside in the ECISD school district for the 2020-2021 year are eligible to apply from January 15th through May 1st.

Application deadline is May 1, 2020. Applications submitted after this date will be accepted and a decision will be made based on the availability of space and student’s campus of origin.

Selection and Notification Process

STEP 1: Completed applications will be screened to ensure minimum expectations are met.

STEP 2: A public lottery will be conducted and 240 students will be selected. ECISD has 6 elementary schools that will feed into The East Central Leadership Academy.

STEP 3: Selected students are required to attend student/parent meetings to discuss student expectations,responsibilities and commitments as an East Central Leadership Academy student.

Application Website

East Central Leadership 2020-2021 Application

The East Central Leadership Academy strives to build the global leaders of tomorrow. Therefore, East Central Leadership teachers are trained in project-based learning, are Gifted and Talented certified, attended Leader In Me Training and AVID training.