Understanding How a Leaders of Color Network Supports the Retention of a Diverse Leader Workforce

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

Abstract

This article presents an intrinsic case study of a Leaders of Color Network implemented by a university-based leadership preparation program in a partner school district that is attempting to diversify its leader workforce. The descriptive data suggests that leaders of color experienced increased workplace stress including issues of safety, professional and racial isolation, as well as fatigue due to oppressive race talk rules and colorblindness. The Network provides promising design elements to support the retention and efficacy of leaders of color including strategies to reduce professional and racial isolation, promote collective sense making, and the development of coalitions. Furthermore, this case presents the need for leaders of color to receive targeted and systematic support that focuses on uplifting, empowering, and amplifying their needs.

Author

• Rebecca Cheung, University of California - Berkeley