WHY TRY TO FIT IN WHEN YOU ARE A STANDOUT? LEADING WHILE BLACK AND MALE IN PREDOMINANTLY WHITE INDEPENDENT SCHOOLS
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Graduate group
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American Languages, Literatures, and Cultures
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Independent Schools
Leadership
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Abstract
This qualitative study explored the lived experiences of Black male leaders working in predominantly white independent schools. The research included semi-structured interviews with 15 Black male leaders in the Northeast United States. This study utilized critical race theory and narrative inquiry approaches to collect authentic and frequently overlooked stories. Theparticipants had anywhere between 3 to over 30 years of leadership experience and shared insights about navigating institutional culture. One of the goals of this study was to uncover the nuanced challenges and triumphs facing men working in these distinct educational institutions. The data showed that these leaders leveraged mentorship networks and developed unique resilience mechanisms while maintaining their cultural identity. On the other hand, institutions still have work to do to eliminate bias within hiring practices to achieve more equity in these schools.