Cultivating Racial Diversity in School Leadership: Unraveling Teacher Professional Advancement

• In Event: Voices of Racially Diverse Educational Leaders

Abstract

Addressing the racial disparity in public schools is vital as students of color often face educational environments lacking racial representation among teachers and school leaders. Current statistics show limited racial diversity of teachers and principals identifying as people of color. Our study investigates racial diversity during the teacher-to-school leadership transition. Tracking a cohort of Texas teachers over nine years, we examine the influence of different teacher pathways on the diversification of the school leader workforce. Preliminary findings reveal alternative certified teachers of color and teachers are entering advanced roles at higher rates. Understanding teacher advancement holds significant implications for fostering diversity in school leadership and promoting a racially inclusive education system.

Authors

• Janet Solis Rodriguez, University of Texas - San Antonio

• Pedro Reyes, University of Texas at Austin

• Celeste Alexander, University of Texas at Austin