The Elusiveness of Equity: Evolution of Instructional Rounds in a Superintendents' Network

• In Event: 65.021 - Developing Tools for Equity Awareness in School Improvement: Support, Development, and Networking for Teachers and Leader

Abstract

This longitudinal qualitative study examines the efforts of an administrator network to address the dual goals of instruction and equity through the practice of instructional rounds, an increasingly prominent method for supporting administrators’ practice. Using collective sensemaking, we trace one network’s rounds practice over six years, examining both the structures and conversations. Findings show that increased attention to equity in the protocol resulted in an increased focus on equity in classroom observations and conversations. However, superintendents often turned to questions of implementation and did not pursue in-depth discussions of equity, even when questions were raised. We conclude with implications for how rounds can be facilitated to bring equity and instruction into sustained focus.

Authors

• Rachel Roegman, Purdue University

• David Allen, College of Staten Island - CUNY

• Thomas C. Hatch, Teachers College, Columbia University