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Abstract

Dr. Gabriella Ramirez is the first female Latinx superintendent to lead Metropolitan City Public Schools a large urban public school district in the Northeast United States. Dr. Ramirez’s successful record of leading culturally responsive and sustaining education initiatives in several districts throughout her career made her the top choice for Metro City Public Schools (MCPSs). As an anti-racist, culturally responsive leader, she initiated several successful programs. However, she also recommended a major policy shift for the district. As a result, she faced the threat of a public smear campaign that would injure her professional reputation and career. This case study challenges current and aspiring leaders to consider how essential the development of their own critical consciousness is for leaders who identify as anti-racist and culturally responsive school leaders.

Keywords

anti-racist leadership culturally responsive school leadership critical consciousness equity ethical leadership

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