Making Sense of Equity: An Exploration of Superintendents’ Conceptions of Educational Equity

• In Event: Roundtable Session 18.
  In Roundtable Session: District Reform Roundtable

Abstract

This study explores how superintendents conceptualize equity and what these conceptions might mean for their leadership practice and for students. Data come from the documentation of a superintendents’ professional network, including meeting transcripts and annual interviews. Preliminary findings show that the majority of superintendents rely on constructs such as the “achievement gap” and AYP in thinking about equity. Understanding the implications of superintendents’ conceptions of equity may inform the development of preparation programs and professional networks that support superintendents in reflecting on what leading for equity entails.

Authors

• Rachel Roegman, Teachers College, Columbia University

• Thomas C. Hatch, Teachers College, Columbia University