Journal Article

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

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Rebecca Cheung and Nate Gong
February 2022 | Leadership and Policy in Schools
A person finishing a presentation as people applaud.

This research article describes a case study of 18 educational leaders in one school district who participated in a Leaders of Color Network. This district network for entry level leaders was designed to reduce racial isolation, promote sensemaking, and develop coalitions. The authors, as action researchers, identified challenges in the work environment: professional isolation, racial isolation, colorblind race talk culture, and restrictive policies and practices. They found that the Leaders of Color Network helped participants gain access and support to design and implement equity actions, and it helped meet their need for belonging and self-efficacy. The authors conclude that school districts must do more than hire educators and leaders of color; they must create systematic strategies to uplift, empower, and amplify the needs of diverse leaders.