Perceptions About the Relational and Operational Practices of African American Female Chief Executive Officers

• In Event: AERA Roundtable Session 6
  In Roundtable Session: Research on the Superintendency SIG Roundtable Session

Abstract

The purpose of the study was to understand the experience of the successful Black female superintendents, and factors that enhance success in the superintendency, with a focus on large urban public school districts. A phenomenological research approach was utilized, building on two primary theoretical constructs- feminist standpoint and intersectionality. Data were collected through individual interviews with the superintendents and three constituent participants from each district. Four findings emerged: (a) equitable education practices were given priority, (b) supporting equitable practices exposed district racism, (c) the superintendents experienced glass cliffs and double standards, and (d) sexism and racism were encountered by all four superintendents. New and aspiring Black superintendents must be better prepared by certification programs for these realities of the position.

Author

• Theodicia D. Collins, Fordham Graduate School of Education