Culturally Responsive School Leadership (Race and Education)

Culturally Responsive School Leadership (CSRL) is a foundational work on how educators and leaders can and should engage with students, families, and communities – especially minoritized students, who, even under the best intentions, are often excluded and/or oppressed in our current education system and structures. The book is not the first publication on the topic of CSRL, but instead serves as a culmination of existing research – by both the author and other scholars – and case for why CSRL is a needed responsibility of educators and leaders. By design, the book is very approachable for educators, leaders, and academics alike. Dr. Khalifa provides clear analysis and discussion of each of his topics within CRSL (providing a focused chapter for each component that he outlines) without getting lost in the theory or meandering needlessly through overly complicated analytical jargon. This is not to say that the book is too light for academics (far from it – a sizeable reference/notes section for each chapter provides peer-reviewed literature support and sources for further reading), instead I would argue that this is a book with a clear purpose and point: this is a book of action, not words, and demonstrates the author’s passion for education and desire to address and overcome a serious issue in our public education system. Discussion topics, questions, and suggestions for action are also provided for educators and leaders alike – meant to reflect and promote mindfulness over each chapter’s focus. There are parts in this book that might directly challenge what educators and leaders consider to be “best” for their students. In fact, there are several points in the book where the author argues that what seems “best” is in fact perpetuating the systemic oppression and exclusion that these educators and leaders think that they are working to overcome. The observations and anecdotes about “Joe” – a major source of discussion in the book from the author’s research – highlight both this contrast between “traditional” viewpoints of leadership/education and CSRL and how students, parents, and community members view a principal who demonstrates a mindfulness and willingness to engage with and value the community. While the focus of the book is primarily urban (as the experiences of the author and his research are located in such settings), its value is not limited to only urban-located readers. I would argue that it is also relevant and important for those in rural and small town schools – it challenges how we (as educators, leaders, and academics) think about education and how we engage with our students - all for the better.

This text marries research with practice and eloquently describes how educational leaders can rework their policies and practices for the benefit of minoritized student populations by honoring and respecting the communities they serve. The book is complete with strategies and skills that leaders can use to be culturally responsive and to hold high expectations of their students. It is all couched in a longitudinal case study that’s an enjoyable and thought-provoking read. It is replete with examples that will resonate with educators who might find themselves neutral and complicit due to their under-preparation in how to engage themselves and others in critical self-reflection. This text goes beyond introspection and addresses how leaders can leverage the voices of students and community to promote school environments in which all students can be successful. I will incorporate this reading in my cultural foundations class. This book does not disappoint!

Highly recommended read for all educators, not just leaders. I'm a classroom teacher and don't have any plans to take on an administrative role but I do see myself as wanting to become a leader in my school on matters of equity. I've spent a lot of time studying culturally relavent teaching but have been looking for ways to move beyond my classroom to the entire school. Khalifa offers actionable ways for school leaders to enact a vision of equity centered on the dignity of minoritized students, their voices, and using the community as a resource and source of knowledge for change. If you're interested in equity and social justice, this is an indispensable resource.

If you are a leader or you aspire to become a leader, you must read this book. It is a paradigm-shifting read. It will challenge your leadership.

This book should be required reading for any current or aspiring school leaders. It offers a look at the real-world challenges facing schools along with real-world strategies that can be used to increase student achievement of students that have been historically marginalized. Often books only offer a look at the complex problems facing schools but Dr. Khalifa also offers insights and behaviors that school leaders can develop to create a more equitable learning environment.

A MUST HAVE!!!! If you are a leader, or future leader, you MUST add this book to your library!!! Aside from Delpit’s riveting foreword, Khalifa is a straight shooter who provides examples and tips on how to be culturally competent and responsive! This should not be optional, but the standard!

I loved the examples of leadership

Was advertised as small amount of damage. No way is this book worth what I paid. Ready for a recycling bin. Will be challenging to read the tops of pages and hard to turn pages. Not impressed!!!

It came highly recommended.