Five Practices for Equity-Focused School Leadership

About the Authors

"Five Practices for Equity-Focused School Leadership" is co-authored by Sharon I. Radd, Gretchen Givens Generett, Mark Anthony Gooden, and George Theoharis. These authors bring extensive experience in educational leadership and equity advocacy. Sharon I. Radd is an educator and consultant with a focus on systemic change and equity in schools. Gretchen Givens Generett is a professor and dean known for her work in social justice and educational leadership. Mark Anthony Gooden is a professor who specializes in equity-focused leadership, while George Theoharis is an educator and author dedicated to inclusive and equitable schooling.

The collective expertise of these authors offers a robust and multifaceted perspective on the challenges and strategies for promoting equity in education. Their combined insights provide a comprehensive guide for school leaders committed to creating more equitable and inclusive learning environments. Their work is particularly relevant in today's diverse educational landscape, where addressing inequities has become increasingly crucial.

Main Idea

"Five Practices for Equity-Focused School Leadership" emphasizes the critical importance of prioritizing equity in school leadership. The book outlines five key practices designed to help educators build relationships, teams, systems, and practices that place equity at the center of their efforts. By addressing historical, structural, institutional, and individual inequalities, school leaders can create a more just and inclusive educational experience for all students.

The authors argue that effective equity leadership requires a systemic and transformative approach. This involves developing the skills and vocabulary necessary for equity-focused leadership, building and supporting equity leadership teams, creating sustainable systems that support equity, and ensuring that equity remains a long-term focus for school leaders. The book serves as a roadmap for educators who are committed to making meaningful and lasting changes in their schools.

Table of Contents

1. Introduction: The Need for Equity-Focused Leadership
2. Practice I: Prioritizing Equity Leadership
3. Practice II: Preparing for Equity
4. Practice III: Developing Equity Leadership Teams
5. Practice IV: Building Equity-Focused Systems
6. Practice V: Sustaining Equity

Introduction: The Need for Equity-Focused Leadership

The introduction sets the stage by discussing the urgent need for equity-focused leadership in education. The authors highlight the persistent inequities that exist in the education system and the critical role that school leaders play in addressing these issues. They argue that to achieve true educational equity, leaders must adopt a systemic approach that challenges existing structures and practices.

"The spirit of universal public education is a spirit of equity and opportunity. Nonetheless, in the midst of this noble work and promise, we have gross inequity. This inequity must and can be changed." - Sharon I. Radd, Gretchen Givens Generett, Mark Anthony Gooden, George Theoharis

The authors emphasize that the journey towards equity is not easy, but it is essential. They call on school leaders to commit to this challenging but rewarding work, stressing that real change requires a deep understanding of the complexities of inequity and a willingness to engage in difficult conversations and actions.

Practice I: Prioritizing Equity Leadership

The first practice involves acknowledging and addressing the deep-rooted inequities in the education system. The authors provide compelling statistics that highlight disparities in school discipline, access to advanced coursework, and the treatment of marginalized students.