Diversifying the Pipeline of Educational Leaders

• In Event: Increasing the Diversity of the School Leadership Workforce and Supporting Equitable Education Systems

Abstract

Current percentages of principals of Color largely mirror those of the national public school teacher workforce. As such, they dramatically diverge from larger national demographics and, most importantly, student demographics. This paper provides insight into these racial imbalances, explores the landscape of leadership preparation for promising practices focused on addressing imbalances, and draws attention to other relevant issues and questions concerning the development of a strong and diverse pipeline of educational leaders. Based on our analyses, we believe principals of Color will continue to be underrepresented relative to students of Color if we continue current practices with regard to college graduation, entrance into teaching, tapping, preparation, placement, and retention.

Authors

• Ed Fuller, The Pennsylvania State University

• Michelle D. Young, Loyola Marymount University