A Qualitative Study on the Lived Experiences of Black Women Superintendents and Their Career Paths
Abstract
This qualitative study using a phenomenological methodology described the lived experiences of sixteen Black women and their career paths toward the superintendency. The purpose of this qualitative study was to describe the experiences of Black women who sought to obtain career advancement as superintendents. In addition, this study explored how challenges and barriers encountered by the participants affected their career paths as well as the interconnectedness of these experiences while being both Black and a woman while ascending to the role of superintendent.Using the lens of Black Feminist Thought theory and Intersectionality, this study examines the collective voices of Black women superintendents and explores their uniqueness of being both “Black” and a “woman”. Important revelations from the study revealed the need for change within societal ideologies about the readiness of Black women as district leaders and societal need to debunk these beliefs and biases that hinder the advancement of Black women. By answering the questions, “How do Black women who are superintendents describe their career paths leading to the superintendency?”, and “How do Black women who are superintendents describe the challenges and barriers to the superintendency?” this study highlighted the importance of sponsorship, voice, the Kizzy Effect, and credibility for Black women on their career paths toward district leadership roles.
Subject Area
Educational leadership|Womens studies|Gender studies|African American Studies
Recommended Citation
Carver-Moore, Lashanda, "A Qualitative Study on the Lived Experiences of Black Women Superintendents and Their Career Paths" (2022). ETD Collection for Fayetteville State University. AAI30000624.
https://digitalcommons.uncfsu.edu/dissertations/AAI30000624