"You Good?": Reflective Lifeguarding and the Black Principal's Commitment to Black Student Success

• In Event: AERA Research in Progress Roundtable Session One
  In Invited Roundtable: Research-in-Progress RT077 (Wednesday)

Abstract

Reflective lifeguard Saviorism is a new concept developed by leaders actively intervening on student needs (e.g., behavioral, educational) based on shared intersectionalities (e.g., race, class, gender) (Crenshaw, 1989; Davis, 2025). For example, existing research found that Black principals positively impact successes of Black children, potentially a form of reflective lifeguarding (Kelley, 2012; Kochman, 1981; MacLennan, 1975; Williams & Loeb, 2012). This framework is relevant, particularly within the field of education, where there is a lack of help for Black and Latino students (Cole, 2012). Past and emerging research supports this narrative, emphasizing the continuous need for Black school leaders. Thus, the purpose of the study is to explore whether Black principals participate in reflective lifeguarding when interacting with Black students.

Authors

• Brittany Davis, Georgia State University

• Sarah E. Carlson, Georgia State University