Breaking Barriers: Women of Color in Superintendent Roles

💡 Key Takeaways

• ​Equity in Education: Dr. Akil stresses the importance of creating equitable policies that catalyze systemic change across all levels of education.

• Leadership Development: The district’s commitment to developing leaders from within by providing meaningful professional development and coaching.

• Investing in Potential: The approach to talent development is inclusive, allowing self-nominations and encouraging a culture where professional growth is prized.

• Community and Mentorship: Building communities of leaders through mentorship and creating environments where teachers and administrators feel valued and supported.

• Broadening Perspectives: The significance of having diverse voices in leadership to bring varied perspectives and innovative solutions to educational challenges.

Embracing Diversity: A Multifaceted Need

Dr. Monique Darrisaw-Akil, Superintendent of Uniondale Union Free School District, underscores the importance of diversity not only among the student body but also within the teaching and administrative staff. Uniondale's unique milieu is characterized by a predominantly Black and Latinx student population, with families ranging from Title I eligibility to middle-class professionals.

"We are trying to make sure that our staff, professional staff, is more reflective of our student body."

This ethos of embracing diversity informs her leadership philosophy. Diversity is not only an issue of social justice but is intricately connected to educational outcomes. As research supports, students of color benefit from having teachers who share their backgrounds and experiences. By diversifying the teaching staff, Uniondale aims to create a more inclusive and nurturing environment that directly supports the students' academic and social growth.

Moreover, Dr. Darrisaw-Akil is committed to addressing systemic inequities even within suburban contexts, breaking the stereotypes that suburban schools are less diverse or face fewer challenges.

"You can't have a single story when it comes down to looking at communities of color. There's a wide range of learners, abilities, income levels, family backgrounds, and histories."

Emphasizing diversity at all levels from student bodies to top administration creates a balanced and equitable educational landscape, fostering a community where everyone has the opportunity to succeed.

 

Building Leadership from Within: A Community-Oriented Approach

For Dr. Darrisaw-Akil, leadership development begins within the community. She strongly believes in cultivating talents from within the district, ensuring they are as competent and visionary as external candidates.

"It's about our system, it's about children everywhere. \[…] The message gets out that we're serious about honoring, particularly the teacher leaders who've been here for a while." 

Uniondale has implemented a structured pipeline program that targets all staff levels, from teacher assistants to principals, for leadership development. Anyone interested in leadership is encouraged to apply, fostering an ethos of opportunity.

"We write it explicitly, we talk to the principals about it. Everyone can't be an AP or a principal one. We just don't have as many positions. But our expectation is that you're developing, that you're sharing leadership, sharing space, giving people opportunities to try an idea."

This approach not only diversifies leadership but also ensures sustainability. By making professional development a collective priority, Uniondale ensures that leadership isn't just the purview of a select few but is distributed across the district, enhancing communal resilience and a sense of ownership.

"We create communities of leaders. That is even more important, even in a small district."

Such an inclusive approach democratizes leadership development, creating a robust, cohesive unit dedicated to the common goal of improving educational outcomes for all students.

 

Cost-Effective Strategies for Leadership Development

Contrary to the belief that leadership development has to be expensive, Uniondale's approach is a blend of necessary financial investment and resourceful in-house efforts. Dr. Darrisaw-Akil emphasizes that while funds are allocated for conferences and professional associations, impactful leadership development often happens within the district, aided by a culture of mentorship and coaching.

"We do invest. Every new leader gets a coach for at least a year. \[…] But there are a lot of things that we can do with our existing leadership team that doesn't cost so much."

Uniondale's methodology includes substantial face-to-face interaction, including reading materials, real-time project presentations, and inter-building collaboration. By focusing on practical experiences rather than purely theoretical learning, the district builds strong, capable leaders from the ground up.

"We're not trying to weed people out. We're not trying to make a graduate school. We're trying to create communities of leaders."

This practical, community-oriented model not only reduces costs but also builds a supportive network of leaders who continuously augment each other's growth. Financial investments are strategically placed, especially for coaching new leaders, to provide consistent support and guidance.

"We bring teachers to present to our principals. We bring students in to present. If you're doing great work and we hear about it, you're going to present to everybody."

Strategic use of existing resources, emphasis on mentorship, and authentic community building render Uniondale’s leadership development both cost-effective and profoundly impactful.

 

The Bigger Picture: Sustainable, Inclusive Leadership

In this intricate dance of diversity, community-oriented leadership, and cost-effective strategies, Uniondale Union Free School District exemplifies how systemic change can be effected through thoughtful, inclusive leadership development. Dr. Monique Darrisaw-Akil's approach underscores that impactful leadership is not tied to hefty budgets but to a well-knit community dedicated to growth and improvement for all its members.

"We know that the work that you're doing, spreading ideas, having critical conversations, impacts change as well."

Her insights reflect an education system where every member—teacher, student, administrator—contributes to a thriving, inclusive, and diverse learning environment. By fostering environments where talent is nurtured and leadership is accessible, schools can become beacons of equity and excellence.

 

MEET OUR GUEST

Dr. Monique Darrisaw-Akil

Dr. Monique Darrisaw-Akil is superintendent at Uniondale Union Free School District in Uniondale, New York, and a member of the Institute for Education Innovation. She was named a "2023 Superintendent to Watch" by the National School Public Relations Association. This honor recognizes superintendents who show innovative leadership and excel in communication. She is the only New Yorker among the 25 nationwide recipients.

Raised in Brooklyn and now residing in Freeport, NY, Darrisaw-Akil began her education career as a high school social studies teacher. Her passion for addressing educational disparities led her to roles such as curriculum specialist and founder of the Academy of Urban Planning in Bushwick.

She advanced through various administrative positions in New York City and served as assistant superintendent for curriculum and instruction in Brentwood before her current role in Uniondale. Here, she continues to focus on equitable education and community engagement.