Leading from the Inside Out: A Foundational Guide for District Leaders Advancing Educational Equity

Abstract

Across Oregon, educators, leaders, students, families, and community partners are deeply committed to preparing all K-12 students for success. Leading From the Inside Out (LFIO) provides foundational strategies, resources, and steps for Oregon K-12 district leaders who are ready to advance their district's journey toward educational equity. It guides the transformation of policies, practices, dispositions, and mindsets to improve outcomes for all students. This approach specifically supports focal students who are underserved or marginalized within the education system. This toolkit is not meant to be a standalone, step-by-step guide, but rather a tool for district leaders to reference as they engage in scaffolded leadership coaching, professional development, and technical support to improve the educational experience of students. The content draws upon evidence-based practices from national experts and researchers, data analysis, and insights from Oregon district and state leaders' experiences with equity and racial equity. In response to district requests, LFIO provides practical tools, leveraging global and national best practices, specifically tailored to the state's educational landscape. It leverages many existing resources and practices each district may already utilize. LFIO is not an additional requirement, but a tool to help navigate the complex terrain of advancing educational equity. It offers multiple entry points to support each equity and racial equity journey, ensuring every student has the chance to reach their full academic and social potential. How districts navigate this resource will depend on their unique context, leadership readiness, and where they are in their equity journey.