Central Office Equity Initiatives and School-Level Implementation: A Mixed-Methods Study of a Mid-Sized Regional District

• In Event: From the Classroom to the Boardroom: Exploring Approaches to Promoting Equity in Education

Abstract

This study examines school-level differences in implementation of a series of equity-focused initiatives aimed at increasing students’ access to rigorous courses. Data include interviews with principals and guidance counselors, as well as student surveys from six high schools within one mid-sized school district. Findings suggest statistically meaningful variation in student-reported experiences, as well as variability in adults’ beliefs and actions. Schools whose principals saw their role as encouraging students to take more advanced courses were more likely to be those in which students reported active guidance and support. We conclude with implications for district-level practice in rolling out such initiatives.

Authors

• Rachel Roegman, University of Illinois at Urbana-Champaign

• Rebecca Hinze-Pifer, University of Illinois at Urbana-Champaign