Carrying the Water: Black Parent Engagement in a Predominantly White, Independent School

• In Event: 66.058 - Roundtable Session 28
  In Roundtable Session: 66.058-9 - Parents, Communities, and the Negotiation of Complex Power Relationships

Abstract

This case study examined the experiences of Black parents at a predominantly White, independent school where Black students were disproportionately “counseled out” or asked to leave. Using Critical Race Theory (CRT), we found that Black parents felt troubled by their interactions with the school, and experienced a particular burden related to race. This paper focuses specifically on issues of communication about academics, resources in the form of tutoring, and interactions among parents. We examined the networks and strengths that Black families used to navigate their engagement with the school.

Authors

• Jane Bolgatz, Fordham University

• Enrique Figueroa, Fordham University

• Sara Skluzacek, New York Department of Education

• Tamar Brown, Fordham University

• Ryan M. Crowley, University of Kentucky