A Pathway to Leadership for Diverse Cadres of School Leaders: Honoring Indigenous Values in a Principal Preparation Program in New Mexico

ABSTRACT

This qualitative study explored the impacts of a principal preparation program to prepare diverse candidates for leadership in New Mexico’s Native-serving schools. Faculty at the state’s flagship institution collaborated with Native scholars and Tribal members to identify the components of leadership that would honor traditional Indigenous values. The redesigned approach was examined from the perspective of aspiring school leaders. Findings revealed the importance of culturally-relevant experiences and mentoring that builds upon Indigenous knowledge and cultures. Lessons learned may be useful for other institutions and communities who are invested in increasing the diversity of the school leadership workforce.

Disclosure Statement

No potential conflict of interest was reported by the author(s).

Additional information

Funding

The authors received no financial support for the research, authorship, and/or publication of this article. The study was supported in part by a faculty development award from resources available to the college.