To register for this lecture series go to www.tltc.ttu.edu and then click on “Register for an Event”. Below is a description of his study.
This presentation will focus on the valuable work of engaging traditionally marginalized educational communities through educational leadership. Using the U.S. Educational pipeline as a guiding framework, the presentation will outline the realistic and empirical work of including all members of school communities – principals, teachers, students, and parents – in the various aspects of schooling and leadership. Communities have traditionally viewed school leaders through polarized leans – either too mean or too weak. Especially school leaders in secondary schools, they are traditionally viewed as disengaged disciplinarians who push out those “who don’t belong.” School leaders, who are progressive and implement transformational and distributive leadership practices, struggle when they attempt to include all members of school and community populations. Changing this mindset involves culturally competent school leaders who are inclusive and value the engagement of their school communities. A host of obstacles, injustices, achievement gaps, stereotypes, and accountability measures equate deficit thinking with many students and parents. The presentation will highlight current research projects involving partnerships in local school districts and within the university that support teaching, research, and service. The presentation will conclude with opportunities for collaboration and thought on further engagement on local, state, and nation education fronts.
Dr. Valle is a first generation college graduate and professional. He currently is an Assistant Professor in the Educational Psychology and Leadership Department who instructs graduate and doctoral students. His current research efforts include research on the identity of school leaders through cultural autobiographies, experiences, and practices of Latina/o school principals through critical lenses, and the intersection of school leadership and college readiness and retention of Latina/o students.
