Repairing the Leak: Understanding and Addressing the Gendered Broken Pipeline in School Leadership

• In Event: AERA Roundtable Session Thursday 4:15 pm
  In Roundtable Session: Navigating K-12 Leadership

Abstract

Although women represent the majority of K–12 educators, their presence dwindles at leadership levels—a phenomenon often described as a “broken pipeline.” This qualitative study explores the lived experiences of women K-12 leaders identifying systemic barriers, personal challenges, and resilience strategies along the pipeline. Through in-depth interviews across diverse districts and roles, the research reveals: 1) institutional gatekeeping and policy misalignments, 2) role incongruence and leadership norms, and 3) informal networks that perpetuate exclusion. Framed within feminist and critical leadership theories, this project offers research-informed remedies—including structured mentorship programs, policy realignment, and equity-centered leadership development—and a pathway to repair by fostering inclusive leadership ecosystems. Findings conclude with actionable implications for educational practitioners, policymakers, and researchers intent on renewing justice in school leadership.

Authors

• LeAnne C. Salazar Montoya, University of Nevada - Las Vegas

• Tracie Trinidad, Aurora Public Schools

• Paulina Lerma, Denver Public Schools

• Cynthia Romero, Nevada Prep Charter School

• Sharon Ross, East Texas A&M University

• Griselda Galindo-Vargas, Texas State University