SUNY Cortland faced the challenge of preparing future school leaders to navigate complex, real-world scenarios with confidence. Gary Astles, an experienced educator who has been shaping school leaders for over 13 years, found the solution in SchoolSims. By integrating simulations into his Building Leadership course, Gary transformed traditional instruction into dynamic, scenario-based learning that empowers students to practice critical decision-making in a safe environment. With simulations covering a range of leadership challenges—from difficult teacher meetings to cultural competency issues—students at SUNY Cortland gain hands-on experience in tackling real-life situations. As Gary notes, “SchoolSims presents realistic situations that mirror the conversations and decisions I experienced during my 32 years as a building principal.” The impact has been significant. Students consistently praise the simulations for their realism and relevance, building the skills and confidence needed to lead effectively. Even with time constraints in SUNY Cortland’s five-week summer courses, Gary has found ways to maximize the value of SchoolSims, balancing group discussions and independent assignments to deepen student engagement. To learn more about how SchoolSims transformed leadership development at SUNY Cortland, including Gary’s tips for maximizing simulation use and enhancing critical conversations, download the full success story!