Building Academic Resilience in Low-Performing Black Male Students: Understanding School Leader Strategies

• In Event: Lessons From the Field: Examples of Bold Social Justice Leadership

Abstract

The purpose of this case study was to understand how school leaders navigate school policies and implement strategies to cultivate academic resilience factors in low-performing Black male students. The study was guided by transformative leadership and resilience theoretical perspectives. The findings include three main themes: (a) the importance of empathic, engaged, and caring adults; (b) thoughtful and deliberate approaches to improving school culture; and (c) strategically managing resources. The study offers implications for school leaders and educators centered on improving school culture, the socio-emotional wellbeing of students, and resource management.

Authors

• Tiffany T. Forrester, United States Department of Education

• Abebayehu Aemero Tekleselassie, The George Washington University

• Lionel Howard, The George Washington University