Bending the Arc Toward Justice

Book excerpt: "School districts are experiencing increasing economic, racial, ethnic, linguistic, gender and sexuality, cultural diversity across the United States and globally. With increasing diversity and persistent social inequities widening (National Center for Educational Statistics, 2019; U.S. Census Data, 2018), school administrators face immense challenges and must actively work to build an equitable, healthy school climate. Educational leaders are critical for ensuring positive student outcomes and success, but often report feeling inadequately prepared for current challenges (Mitani, 2018; Coalition for Teacher Equality, 2016; Miller, 2013; Jordan, 2012; Papa, 2007). Unfortunately, growing challenges are contributing to high school administrator turnover rates and shortages (Mordechay & Orfield, 2017; Jacob et al., 2015; Gates et al., 2006) as well as perpetuating social inequities among preK-12 students instead of dismantling them (Beckett, 2018; Rangel, 2018; Shankar-Brown, 2015, Manna, 2015; Fuller, 2012). A research study by the National Association of Secondary School Principals (NASSP) and the Learning Policy Institute (LPI) reveals that public schools with higher percentages of low-income students and students of color are more likely to experience administrative turnover, which compounds equity issues affecting already vulnerable students (Levin and Bradley, 2019). This book provides educational leaders with a deeper understanding of equity-focused and inclusive leadership practices, while offering intersectional views on social inequalities and stark reminders of the work still ahead. Connecting theory to practice, this book offers needed encouragement and inspiration to both in-service and practicing educational leaders. Rooted in social justice and weaving together diverse voices, this edited volume systematically examines equity-focused PreK-12 and higher education leadership practices. Shankar-Brown (Ed.) calls on educational leaders to rise and mindfully work together to bend the arc toward justice"--