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ERIC Number: ED654227
Record Type: Non-Journal
Publication Date: 2024
Pages: 118
Abstractor: As Provided
ISBN: 979-8-3827-7465-7
ISSN: N/A
EISSN: N/A
Available Date: N/A
Latina Administrators: A Narrative Inquiry into the Unique Construction of Their Leadership Philosophies
Lilliana Mendoza
ProQuest LLC, Ed.D. Dissertation, California State University, Stanislaus
How Latina administrators construct their leadership philosophies in the K-12 public education system and what makes them unique in a traditionally male-dominated context was explored in this qualitative study. Using a narrative inquiry approach, seven Mexican American women working as school principals in California's Central Valley were interviewed. Three main themes emerged: (a) building the Latina leadership voice: from being quiet to speaking up, (b) the Latina leadership style: developing an inclusive we-culture, and (c) the success and emotional cost of female leadership. Initially, these women experienced self-doubt and cultural factors that delayed their pursuit of leadership roles. However, external encouragement helped them transition from supportive to leadership roles. They overcame their hesitancies and built their voices by realizing their potential to advocate for marginalized students and drive systemic changes. The participants described their leadership philosophy as a "we-culture" mindset and set of practices. Their leadership philosophies were rooted in cultural values such as familismo, resiliency, and trust building. They leveraged their linguistic capital and relied on informal mentorship to navigate challenges. Despite feelings of pride and success, these Latina leaders also faced significant emotional challenges and systemic barriers as double minorities in a male-dominated field. This study highlights the need for formal mentorship programs, celebration of Latina leadership, and advocacy for inclusive and equitable professional practices. Future research should explore regional variations, the impact of Latina leadership on student outcomes, and the long-term effects of mentorship and support networks on Latina leaders' career trajectories. [The dissertation citations contained here are published with the permission of ProQuest LLC. Further reproduction is prohibited without permission. Copies of dissertations may be obtained by Telephone (800) 1-800-521-0600. Web page: http://www.proquest.com/en-US/products/dissertations/individuals.shtml.]
ProQuest LLC. 789 East Eisenhower Parkway, P.O. Box 1346, Ann Arbor, MI 48106. Tel: 800-521-0600; Web site: http://www.proquest.com/en-US/products/dissertations/individuals.shtml
Publication Type: Dissertations/Theses - Doctoral Dissertations
Education Level: N/A
Audience: N/A
Language: English
Sponsor: N/A
Authoring Institution: N/A
Identifiers - Location: California
Grant or Contract Numbers: N/A
Author Affiliations: N/A