It takes courage to stand up for equity in our public education systems. Across the country, education leaders who advance equity policies that work to address racial, ethnic, language, gender, sexual orientation, and religious discrimination are under fire in the midst of culture wars that have engulfed much of our society in the United States.
We have important work at hand to unify ourselves around the counter-narrative constructs that offer designs grounded in equity, respect and inclusion. That is why I am excited about the bold women leaders who are coming together on June 19-21 on the Vancouver, Washington Waterfront for the When Women Lead education summit. I am also especially excited that at this event we will recognize eleven women leaders who boldly fight for the rights of all children to learn in an environment that respects the diversity of the world in which we live.
As an organization devoted to supporting women in the superintendent seat, we know that women bring diverse perspectives, skills, and experiences that are critical for addressing the complex challenges facing our schools today. Women also serve as role models, mentors and advocates for the next generation of women leaders, inspiring them to pursue executive leadership positions in education. Women superintendents and superintendents of color also know first-hand how our entrenched social and economic systems and beliefs require that women work harder than men to obtain and retain chief executive leadership positions. That is why we exist – we are a dedicated network of leaders who are here to support and celebrate one another, and work collaboratively to change conditions for more equitable access.
If you are looking for a networking opportunity, I want to encourage you to also look at our Women Superintendents’ Policy Leadership Academy (WSPLA), a highly focused five-session program on policy voice and empowerment. Applications are now open at: voice4equity.com/wspla-info, with the next cohort beginning in September.
Finally, look out for our schedule of regional one-day convenings during the Fall of 2023 and Spring of 2024, coming soon!
With gratitude,
Christina
P.S. Know a woman education leader who ought to be receiving The Stories We Tell? Forward them this email and tell them to subscribe here: voice4equity.com/connect
