Teachers' Perceptions of African American Principals' Leadership in Urban Schools

Abstract

Concerns about leading ethnically diverse urban schools imply that principals of color may play an important role in accomplishing their schools' goals. Findings from this study revealed that in areas of image management and relationship development, teachers of color and European American teachers in urban schools perceive their principals' leadership differently. Results revealed that (a) leaders of color were critical in creating an inclusive school among groups of ethnically diverse groups of teachers; (b) due to their racial affiliation, leaders of color played an important role in recruiting and retaining teachers of color; and (c) leaders of color were responsible for ensuring that European American teachers were culturally responsive to students of color.