• • Brochure
  • Register
  • 2013 Call for Instructors
  • Lodging and Tuition Rates

“I have finally found the professional development driver I desperately needed! Not only is the curriculum current, pertinent, and competent, the ongoing resource of my fellow classmates raised the bar for creative and useful implementation of the CAPRA standards. This experience will help me institute a culture change in my department.” –2012 participant

All park and recreation professionals know the value of professional development. The challenge is finding the right professional development to meet your needs and provide you with the knowledge, content and network you need to succeed.

The NRPA Directors School is an exclusive professional development opportunity designed to prepare new and potential directors of park and recreation agencies for the challenges of leading and managing effectively. This two-year program is aimed at

• Current park or recreation directors;
• Current park or recreation assistant/deputy directors; and
• Mid-level managers being groomed for a park and recreation director position.

“This has been an awesome and wonderful experience. I only wish I had attended sooner. The classmates, instructors, accommodations and observers were great. The diversity of the school is an invaluable asset as practices, views, philosophies, differences, and commonalities are all brought together for the enrichment of all. My spark is now a healthy flame that is burning bright and hot and my aim is to re-light the flame in those I manage and lead in hopes of motivating in spite of our challenges. Thank you NRPA and Oglebay for a wonderful experience.” --2012 participant

This is a two-year professional development commitment for which all potential participants must first apply and provide supporting documentation. After careful review, accepted participants will be notified and invited to register.

Show your commitment to the park and recreation industry by participating in this exclusive and unique professional development program where you will learn valuable content, but more importantly, enhance your professional network.

“My favorite aspect of the Directors School is [the] ability to network and share with some awesome people. “D School” is a special place.” –2012 participant

Here is a peak at the Directors School content. The learning objectives are based on the CAPRA standards and the Management of Parks and Recreation Agencies text.

Learning Objectives:

• Identify qualities of a good manager and develop the management skills required to run a successful park and recreation agency.
• Develop the skills necessary to evaluate a park and recreation agency's organizational structure and administrative procedures.
• Develop proficiency in designing and implementing agency strategic and marketing plans.
• Build an improved leadership skill set.
• Evaluate and identify the legal responsibilities and implications related to park and recreation agency operation.
• Develop and implement performance management systems to evaluate the performance of agency personnel and the overall success of the agency itself.
• Prioritize programs and services in order to maximize positive impact on their communities.

“I am very impressed with the NRPA Directors School. Although the program was intense it was worth every moment.” –2012 participant

Apply Today

To be considered for the school, interested applicants must submit the online application form and supporting documents. In addition to completing this online application, you will need to provide a copy of your updated resume and organizational chart. You will have an opportunity to upload those documents and attach them at the end of the online application. Year I and Year II schools will be conducted simultaneously.

Qualification Requirements:

• A current park or recreation director;
• A current park or recreation assistant/deputy director;
• A mid-level manager being groomed for a park and recreation director position.

To Register:

Year One Students - Application Form
Year Two Students - Contact Oglebay directly at ntc@oglebay-resort.com or 304-243-4126.

2013 Directors School Scholarship: Now accepting applications!

Interested scholarship applicants are asked to submit their Directors School application before completing their scholarship application. The scholarship application deadline is June 4, 2013. The winner will be notified by June 11, 2013 and current applicants to the Directors School are welcome to apply.
The scholarship will be granted to an individual in the amount of $950 to cover the member cost of tuition. If you have any questions while filling out either application, please email Tom Crosley at tcrosley@nrpa.org or call 703.858.2193.  

“The expertise offered during Directors School is exceptional and the networking opportunity is invaluable.” –2012 participant

Future Directors School Dates:

• August 23 to 29, 2014
• August 22 to 28, 2015

For more information about the program content, contact customer service at customerservice@nrpa.org
For more information on registration and other details, contact Oglebay Resort and Conference Center at ntc@oglebay-resort.com

The three sponsoring organizations of this event are: The Oglebay National Training Center, National Recreation and Park Association, and The Department of Parks, Recreation and Tourism Management at North Carolina State University.

**Qualified applicants who submit an application and get accepted are not obligated to attend.