Contradictions, Niceness, and Accountability: A Content Analysis of an Urban District's Leaders' Perspectives on a Racial Equity Transformation

• In Event: Sheraton Roundtable Session Ten
  In Roundtable Session: Engaging Educators in Equity-Focused Change (Table 17)

Abstract

The sustained equity-oriented district transformation agenda of one large urban school district in the Northeast presents a unique opportunity to study how a district can bridge theory and practice to change racial inequities. In noting this, I ask: What contradictions arise during an equity-oriented district transformation process? This paper draws on school leadership and district-level change literature. I employ activity theory while investigating through content analysis the contradictions that arise from a yearlong professional learning series about racial equity. The data suggest two primary contradictions - transforming toward racial equity while engaging in accountability and the personal discomfort when discussing race or racism while working in a culture of niceness. Implications for leadership and preparation are discussed.

Authors

• Patricia M. Virella, Montclair State University
  Presenting Author

• Román Liera, Montclair State University
  Presenting Author