From Crisis to Opportunity: Building Systemic Equity for English Learners

• In Event: Leading for Language Learning: Equity, Excellence, and Deficit Resistance

Abstract

This three-phase investigation seeks to identify effective leadership for English Learners (ELs) during the COVID-19. We examine policies and practices to (1) understand short-term exemplary leadership for ELs during school closures, (2) determine if the initial leadership components are sustained or altered as schools reopen, and (3) validate research-based tools to support equity leadership for ELs. We use grounded theory to explore educators’ actions and written documents and derive an Equity Leadership Framework for ELs. Phase 2 examines how teacher leaders’ and administrators’ longer-term practices reflect the Equity Leadership Framework. Preliminary findings suggest strong alignment with the Framework themes. Most themes could readily apply to other marginalized student groups and would require specificity related to each student groups’ unique needs.

Authors

• Magaly Lavadenz, Loyola Marymount University

• Linda R. G. Kaminski, Loyola Marymount University

• Elvira G. Armas, Loyola Marymount University