Invincible but Invisible: A Phenomenological study of African American Female Principals in Wisconsin’s Public K - 12 Schools

Carter, Janice M. Abstract This phenomenological study examines the lived experiences of African American female principals serving in Wisconsin’s urban public K–12 schools, a group significantly underrepresented in educational leadership despite increasing student diversity statewide. Replicating the 2020 study conducted by Dr. Serina Strange, this research explores how racism, sexism, and systemic inequities shape Black women’s pathways into and through the principalship. Grounded in the theoretical framework of intersectionality, the study utilized semi-structured interviews with nine African American female principals working in urban public school settings to uncover shared experiences, challenges, and strategies for professional sustainability. Analysis of participants’ narratives revealed four central themes: Journey to Leadership, Challenges, Philosophies, and Strategies for Sustainability. Findings demonstrate that participants consistently encountered intersecting racial and gender biases, including heightened scrutiny, isolation, unequal access to resources, and expectations of cultural caretaking. Despite these barriers, the principals relied heavily on mentorship particularly from other Black women along with spirituality, relational leadership practices, and intentional self-preservation strategies to remain effective and resilient in their roles. The study concludes that the persistent structural inequities affecting African American female principals require systemic responses. Recommendations include the development of intentional leadership pipelines, equity-centered professional support systems, and organizational commitments to confronting intersectional bias. These findings contribute to the limited scholarship on Black women in educational leadership and underscore the importance of acknowledging, affirming, and addressing their unique experiences within K–12 educational systems.

Grantor dc:publisher

Alverno College

Year dc:date

2026

Author dc:creator

• Carter, Janice M.

Statement dc:rights

• These materials may be used by individuals and libraries for personal use, research, teaching (including distribution to classes), or for any fair use as defined by U.S. Copyright Law.

Language dc:language

English

Repository record dc:identifier

https://alverno.omeka.net/items/show/1027

OAI identifier oai:identifier

oai:alverno.omeka.net:1027