Transformative Leadership Approaches to Inclusion, Equity, and Social Justice

The purpose of this article is to examine the leadership beliefs and practices of three school leaders in a large urban school district in the Rocky Mountain West to determine whether any are consistent with transformative leadership. We sought to (a) describe the challenges faced by these school leaders in addressing the needs of changing populations, (b) understand the ways in which these educators conceptualize an equitable education for all, and (c) identify the inclusive practices that they implement to ensure a socially-just education for all. This study used a transformative, multiple case study to understand the beliefs and practices of three school leaders. Data were collected for this study at one elementary, one middle, and one high school in the same urban school district. We used transformative leadership theory as a conceptual framework to guide the data collection and analysis, focusing explicitly on inclusion, equity, excellence, and social justice. The findings demonstrate how leaders exercise equitable, socially just leadership to create welcoming, inclusive schools where all students, including those who are minoritized or economically disadvantaged, feel affirmed, respected, and academically challenged. An important major challenge that emerged was the need for alignment of district goals and practices with those of school leaders. We conclude with a call to school leaders to disrupt inequitable school cultures and work in transformative ways.