Policy, Power, and Praxis: Co-Designing Leadership Curriculum for Equity in a CPED-Aligned EdD Program

• In Event: Preparing Equity-Oriented Leaders Through the Education Doctorate (EdD)

Abstract

This paper details a curricular innovation within a CPED-aligned EdD program, grounded in longstanding equity commitments. Faculty collaboratively designed two summer courses— Educational Policy and Analysis in Education and Race, Identity, and Representation in Education to equip aspiring leaders with tools for political critique and resilience. Integrating Critical Race Theory and critical policy analysis, the courses scaffolded assignments culminating in a critical policy analysis paper and presentation. Students engaged real-world policy challenges and examined their racial implications. Analysis of course materials and student reflections reveals enhanced political clarity and strategies for sustaining equity leadership in politically volatile contexts. This paper illustrates how intentional curricular design can develop leaders prepared to advance equity despite mounting political resistance.

Authors

• Katherine C. Rodela, Washington State University

• Shannon M. Calderone, Washington State University