School Leadership Reflections: How Memories (Positive or Negative) Impact the Present

• In Event: Social-Emotional Dimensions of Leadership

Abstract

This proposal is based on a qualitative study involving 30 school leaders, utilizing autobiographical memory to explore how principals' past experiences and positionality are connected to their leadership practices and efforts to promote equity. The study's three main findings suggest that positive or negative memories of educators and mentors influence whether leaders adopt caring practices or feel compelled to compensate for gaps in their own educational experiences. Additionally, participants highlighted the significance of relationship values as fundamental beliefs that guide their interactions with students and staff. Lastly, the findings suggest that for some leaders, a deeper understanding of their identities impacts their approach to equity.

Authors

• Victor Alberto Ruiz-Divas, University of Illinois at Urbana-Champaign

• Osly J. Flores, University of Illinois at Urbana-Champaign