Conceptualizing and Reconceptualizing Equity: A Longitudinal Examination of Superintendent Equity Leadership

• In Event: Approaches of Leaders Building Equity and Inclusion

Abstract

In this study, we analyze superintendents’ understandings of equity through their participation in a state-wide professional development network. Over nine years, superintendents identified inequities and implemented plans to address them. This study focuses on data presentations that superintendents gave as well as interviews in which they reflect on evolving understandings of equity and their district equity work. Drawing on a framework of conceptions of equity, we look to ways that understandings changed and consider various influences for this. Participants include superintendents who transferred districts, as well as former and current superintendents form the same district, enabling an examination of how conceptions of equity might move within and across districts. We conclude with implications for practice to support equity leadership.

Authors

• Rachel Roegman, University of Illinois at Urbana-Champaign

• David Allen, College of Staten Island - CUNY

• Scott Thompson, Panasonic Foundation

• Thomas C. Hatch, Teachers College, Columbia University

• Ruqayyah Perkins-Williams, University of Illinois at Urbana - Champaign

• Chelsea Baker, University of Illinois at Urbana - Champaign

• Larry Leverett, Leverett Education Consulting