Equity-Based Leadership Leveraging Complexity to Transform School Systems

With a visionary approach to school improvement, Equity-Based Leadership proposes a framework to support system leaders seeking to organize change and provide more-equitable education. Joshua P. Starr makes the case that intentional and attentive district leadership can bring about continuous improvement in schools. When district reforms are conceived with social justice in mind, Starr explains, schools move toward fulfilling the longstanding promise of equitable education in America.

Starr’s method for transforming educational systems confidently guides the higher-level decision-making of leaders–not only superintendents but also school board members, cabinet members, and central office administrators–within the context of districtwide efforts to make education better for all students.

“This book is full of concrete examples that provide practical guidance on how to bring coherence to change efforts, starting with classroom instruction. Starr’s approach is detailed and nuanced, rooted in an understanding of the complex issues that frequently obstruct efforts to bring about improvement. For educators seeking to advance education for all students, this book will be helpful and undoubtedly an invaluable resource.”
–Pedro A. Noguera, Emery Stoops and Joyce King Stoops Dean, Rossier School of Education, University of Southern California

“Equity-Based Leadership provides a blueprint for future-driven teaching and learning. Joshua P. Starr points out that in order to capture a vision of equity-focused education, school leaders must take bold steps to rewrite the rule book to create conditions for success.”
-Daniel A. Domenech, executive director, AASA, the School Superintendents Association

“Joshua P. Starr shows how school district superintendents can and must be main drivers of change at that scale. His real-world examples–including those from his own leadership across several districts–illustrate superintendents rolling up their sleeves and working alongside staff and community members to rewrite the old rules in ways that move teaching and learning to center stage.”
–Meredith I. Honig, director of the District Leadership Design Lab and professor of education policy, organizations, and leadership, University of Washington

Joshua P. Starr is the chief executive officer of PDK International and a former superintendent.