Poster #1 - Educational Activists: Superintendents With Critical Consciousness

• In Event: 67.071 - MTCC Poster Session 16
  In Poster Session: 67.071-1 - Districts in Reform

Abstract

This study illustrates the significance of the roles and responsibilities of superintendents in the development, implementation, and sustainability of equity-oriented social justice policies and practices. Superintendents of 4 school districts in Florida were interviewed. Application of the frameworks of social justice leadership and Freire’s notion of critical consciousness resulted in the development of three overarching themes--characterizing a social justice-oriented superintendent, navigating the politics, and advocating for marginalized students and taking strategic action. Intentional efforts focused on LGBTQ students, children with disabilities, and harshly disciplined students of color. Discussion involved the sociopolitical, cultural, and organizational aspects that impact social justice efforts within districts.

Author

• Karen Ramlackhan, University of South Florida