Cultural Competence as the Foundation for Culturally Relevant and Culturally Responsive Leadership

• In Event: Social Justice Beliefs and Actions

Abstract

It is widely acknowledged that an academic achievement gap exists between low-income Black/African American students and their White peers. This gap is often attributed to a lack of culturally competent leaders, culturally responsive leadership practices, and culturally relevant connections in diverse school communities. To address this challenge, it is essential to distinguish between culturally competent, responsive, and relevant school leadership. Developing individual leaders' cultural competence is crucial for promoting effective, culturally responsive, and relevant leadership practices. By prioritizing these principles, we can work towards closing the achievement gap and ensuring equal opportunities for all students.

Authors

• Tara Indar, University of South Florida

• Marie Byrd, University of South Florida Sarasota-Manatee