The Theory-Practice Gap: Ed.D. Student-Practitioners' Perceptions of Culturally Responsive Leadership for Black and Latinx Students

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

Abstract

While culturally responsive school leadership (CRSL) is recognized as a framework to prepare leaders to address racial disparities in schools, few studies have investigated CRSL perspectives among community college practitioners enrolled in educational leadership Ed.D. programs. This qualitative study examined CRSL perspectives among Ed.D. students who serve as community college practitioners (student-practitioners). Semi-structured interviews explored perceived threats to—and opportunities for—culturally responsive practices in community colleges to address Black and Latinx equity gaps. Preliminary findings reveal two emergent themes: Student-practitioners struggle to define culturally responsive practices specific to Black and Latinx students, and they acknowledge limited self-efficacy in implementing these practices due to various barriers. Results indicate gaps in leadership preparation suggesting the need for innovations in CRSL curricula.

Authors

• Inez Moore, California State University - Fullerton

• Keyla Sanchez, California State University - Fullerton

• Araceli Negrete, California State University - Fullerton

• Wendy Heredia, California State University - Fullerton