The unique challenges and opportunities faced by African-American women in public school leadership, the powerful impact they have on students, and the changes that might lead to more opportunities for advancement among those who follow them were the key topics covered during “It’s Our Time: A Conversation with Black Women in School Leadership,” a public forum held recently by the School of Education at SUNY Old Westbury.
A recurring theme of the evening centered on having a passion for the field.
“In teaching, you just touch the future,” said Dr. Lorna Lewis, superintendent of the Malverne Union Free School District. ”When former students tell me they remember my lesson, I know I’ve touched the future.”
Lewis was joined in a panel discussion by Dr. Monique Darrisaw-Akil, superintendent, Uniondale Union Free School District; Regina Armstrong, superintendent, Hempstead Union Free School District; Dr. Deborah Wortham, superintendent, Roosevelt Union Free School District; and Dr. Tahira Dupree Chase, superintendent, Westbury Union Free School District. The panel was moderated by April Francis-Taylor, director of diversity, equity and inclusivity, Eastern Suffolk BOCES.
Along with the local educational leaders, the event included remarks by Dr. Lester Young, chancellor of the New York State Board of Regents.
“It’s our belief in New York State that you can’t be what you can’t see,” said Chancellor Young about the need to continually enhance diversity in the teaching profession. “The presence of these leaders here this evening is proof that there is no one story to follow to success.”
Nearly 150 students, employees and alumni of the College attended, along with community members representing school districts from throughout the metropolitan New York area. The event was held as part of the College’s Women’s History Month programming.
“Our mission in the School of Education is to prepare teacher candidates who value human diversity and exemplify an appreciation for the interdisciplinary nature of knowledge and for learning as a lifelong process,” said Dean Dr. Diana Sukhram. “Introducing our students to these strong, accomplished superintendents provides a real-world glimpse at the professional and personal characteristics and dispositions they will need to succeed as educators.”
The 90-minute discussion among the members of this self-titled group of “Sister Supes” covered a wide range of topics, ranging from mentorship and leadership to the COVID-19 pandemic and improving equity among differing schools.
Dr. Lewis called for more education of boards of education themselves. “We have to have boards of education willing to accept people of color,” she said, noting that often people of color are appointed in leadership only at districts where the majority of students are of color. “I think people need to see excellence in all colors.”
Regarding equity, Dr. Darrisaw-Akil pointed to the classroom as the greatest test on the issue.
“Equity starts and ends with what our students are getting in our classrooms,” said Dr. Darrisaw-Akil, who along with being a superintendent is a trustee of the Old Westbury College Foundation, Inc. “Every day, critical decisions are made that impact policy, students, and their families. We have to start to unpack who makes those decisions, whose voices are being heard, so we can be sure that all students get the attention, care and quality they deserve when they are in our schools.”
Each panelist also offered their own piece of advice to the aspiring teachers and professionals in attendance.
“Take care of your wellness before you have to take care of your illness,” said Dr. Dupree Chase. “You are better leader, better educator, better everything when you find balance.”
Quoting an oft-used scripture, Dr. Armstrong said “To thine own self, be true. Don’t let anyone deter you from being the best person you can be.”
“Shine your light,” said Dr. Darrisaw-Akil. “Our children need to see authenticity so free yourself from what other people think a teacher or superintendent is supposed to be and be yourself.”
Dr. Lewis reminded the audience that “you can only become accomplished at something you love.”
And Dr. Wortham wrapped up the evening by reminding all in attendance that professionalism, strong skills and self-belief most often rule the day. “You have to know who you are and whose you are,” she said. “Self-confidence leads to effort, effort leads to success.”
About the School of Education
SUNY Old Westbury has been providing teacher education programs since 1975. Accredited by the Association for Advancing Quality in Educator Preparation, the School of Education seeks to prepare teacher candidates to be literate and progressive citizens who value human diversity and exemplify an appreciation of knowledge and learning as a lifelong process. The College boasts more than 3,000 alumni with undergraduate degrees in education. Currently, some 550 students are studying in the 19 undergraduate and graduate degrees offered through the School’s Adolescence Education, Childhood Education and Literacy, and Exceptional Education and Learning departments.
