All public and nonpublic principals and superintendents in New Jersey may participate beginning in July 2001. The program runs in stages for approximately six months, with stages overlapping during the summer months. Each participant is expected to enroll and complete the activities within the time frame for a particular stage. During each stage, participants are encouraged to attend up to seven institutes held at approximately 30 sites. Enrollment is on a first come, first served basis with a limit of 500 participants in each stage of the program.
Stages are for a period of approximately six months.
However, they are not eligible for the incentive award because the Gates Foundation only provides incentives for superintendents and principals. Those who attend at least three institutes during a six-month period may attend the culminating seminar. At the conclusion of the day, incentives are awarded and a lottery is held. The institutes focus on developing skills and gaining knowledge to effectively integrate technology into the learning environment and assist with administrative decisions. As required by the Gates Foundation, the institutes are based on the Milken's Seven Dimensions of Progress.