Promoting Equity amid Shifting Political Contexts: A Multi-State Case Study

• In Event: The Architecture of Education Governance: Institutions, Leadership, and Influence

Abstract

State education agency (SEA) leaders play influential roles shaping education systems, yet their work remains under-researched. While a growing body of scholarship illustrates the complexity of state education agencies, less is known about how state leaders navigate shifting political contexts and increasing polarization. Using a critical policy perspective, we examine four state education leaders’ efforts to improve policies and practices for multilingual learners (ML). Employing case study methods, we analyze longitudinal interview data and meeting observations to explore: How do state leaders promote ML equity over time amid shifting political contexts? How do contextual factors mediate their work? Findings inform how leaders and researchers protect the rights of marginalized students in the face of increasing threats to public education.

Authors

• Hannah Goldstein, University of Pittsburgh

• Hayley Ryan Weddle, University of Pittsburgh