This is Why Representation Matters in Our Schools

In our ever-changing society, having diverse representation in schools is incredibly important. This means making sure students from various backgrounds see themselves reflected in their teachers, school leaders, and the curriculum. When students see people who look like them and share similar experiences, it helps them feel valued, understood, and motivated to achieve their full potential. This kind of inclusive environment is essential for the success and well-being of all students.

Enhancing Self-Esteem and Academic Achievement

Representation allows students of color to see themselves reflected in the educators and leaders that surround them at school—and then imagine bigger and bolder dreams for themselves. Today, half of all students in K-12 public schools identify as people of color, while only one in five school principals does. Only 11 percent of principals are Black, and just nine percent are Hispanic. This difference is known as the representation gap in educational leadership. A similar gap exists in district boardrooms across the nation as our K-12 school systems are predominantly led by white men (73 percent). Only eight percent of superintendents identify as leaders of color.

When students see teachers, administrators, and role models who look like them and share similar experiences, it enhances their self-esteem and sense of belonging. Research shows that students who feel represented are more likely to engage in their studies and pursue higher education. They see possibilities for their futures that they might not have considered otherwise. This visibility helps to dismantle stereotypes and challenges the limitations often imposed by societal biases.

Fostering Empathy and Cross-Cultural Understanding

Representation plays a vital role in teaching empathy and understanding among students from different backgrounds. When the curriculum includes diverse perspectives, students learn to appreciate and respect differences. This exposure fosters a more inclusive mindset and prepares students to navigate and contribute to an increasingly globalized world. By learning about the histories, cultures, and contributions of various groups, students develop a broader worldview and are better equipped to engage in meaningful dialogue with people from diverse backgrounds.

Think of the value of multicultural literature that invites readers of all ages to expand their understanding of cultures other than their own. Think of Black Panther or Miles Morales as the new Spider-Man or Marvel’s first Asian-American superhero, Shang-Chi, that hit movie theaters this fall. Our education secretary, Dr. Miguel Cardona, who was an English-language learner in school—like nearly five million students today—serves as the top education leader in our country. His lived experience shapes how he leads and how he elevates the needs of all students. More equitable representation matters because it fuels student success.

Reducing Discrimination and Bias

Schools are microcosms of society, and as such, they play a pivotal role in combating discrimination and bias. When diversity is celebrated and inclusivity is prioritized, it sends a powerful message that all students are valued. This approach helps to create a safer and more supportive environment for students who might otherwise feel marginalized. Representation in school policies, teaching materials, and extracurricular activities ensures that no group is overlooked or silenced.

Strengthening Community Bonds

An inclusive school environment extends beyond the classroom and into the broader community. Schools that prioritize representation help to build stronger, more cohesive communities. Students who feel seen and heard are more likely to contribute positively to their communities, advocating for equity and justice. These schools become beacons of diversity and inclusion, setting an example for other institutions to follow.

The Impact of Representation in School Leadership

We know great school principals build great schools. A school leader can add up to three months of additional learning for students. When a school principal is a leader of color, research shows higher student achievement and better school outcomes specifically for teachers and children of color.

A study from Vanderbilt University, for example, found that Black and Hispanic students are better represented in gifted programs when they attend schools led by principals who share their racial identity. Leaders of color have also been found to hold higher expectations and create school cultures that are more supportive and sustainable for teachers of color.

A school culture that is free from bias and limitation benefits all students. Students of color get to see their role models in action as they challenge stereotypes, replace inequitable systems, and build learning environments rooted in respect, high expectations, and inclusivity. That kind of educational leadership benefits white students too.

Far too often, disparities within our education system create unequal access to resources, opportunities, and support. This is especially true for students of color and students from communities with lower incomes. Representation does not fix these larger systemic challenges, but research shows that diversity in leadership roles leads to better student outcomes.

The Importance of Teacher Representation

Representation gaps exist in classrooms across the country too. The majority of public-school educators are women (76 percent), with only 20 percent identifying as teachers of color. And just two percent identify as African American and male.

Like great principals, teachers change lives. Research shows teachers of color have a powerful and lasting impact beyond their classroom. A longitudinal study found that Black teachers in elementary schools increase the likelihood of Black students attending college and decrease the likelihood of dropping out of high school, particularly among Black males.

Student achievement gains are also linked to teacher leadership. When teacher leaders are involved in schoolwide decision-making processes and sit on instructional leadership teams led by their principals, student performance improves. This kind of shared leadership, known as distributed leadership, also leads to higher teacher retention and overall job satisfaction.

It’s a popular misconception that the best principals are like superheroes, leaping over tall buildings and single-handedly improving schools. The idea cannot be further from the truth. Students thrive when leaders at every level work together toward educational equity and excellence.

Steps Toward Greater Representation

New Leaders is working to close the representation gap and accelerate the learning of all students. Through our programming, National Aspiring Principals Fellowship, and district partnerships, we build diverse pipelines of leadership talent and develop equity-focused leaders who:

• • Promote a mindset in all members of their team that all children can learn at exceedingly high levels
  • Create an inclusive environment that allows all faculty, staff, parents, and students to feel safe, valued, cared for, and seen
  • Provide all students access to effective, high-quality curricula that are both academically rigorous and culturally responsive/relevant
  • Create systems and structures that equitably distribute resources
  • Consider the impact of their decision-making and policies on historically marginalized groups