“Am I one of them ones”: autoethnographic reflections of an African American administrator on educational reform in predominantly White communities

Date

2024

Journal Title

Journal ISSN

Volume Title

Publisher

Kansas State University

Abstract

Here I offer a critical autoethnography as an African American Male who has engaged in various forms of educational reform in predominantly White communities. My personal stories will take you on a journey of my life and career in education as a teacher and leader through counter-storytelling with a focus on my experiences in administrative positions. Using critical race theory, along with diversity and reform frameworks found in the Kansas State Department of Education to guide my self-analysis, I offer stories which highlight my unique perspectives as a leader. While this story began with a specific focus on educational reform in Kansas, it ultimately evolved into a more personal story of growth and self-awareness which culminates with my reaction to a question posed by Gloria Ladson-Billings (2023) during a Keynote address: “Are you one of them ones?”

Description

Keywords

Educational reform, Autoethnography, Diversity, Equity, Inclusion, Belonging

Graduation Month

May

Degree

Doctor of Education

Department

Department of Educational Leadership

Major Professor

Sean 'Alex' A. Red Corn

Date

Type

Dissertation

Citation