Latina Women Leaders: Their experiences, obstacles, and triumphs
Abstract: Purpose of the Study and Problem Addressed: The purpose of this ethnographic qualitative research was to describe the experiences of Latina principals in a western state. AIM: Use the findings to recommend a mentoring program of aspiring Latina principals Methods: Ethnography was the preferred data collection method in an attempt to unveil cultural scenes unique to the informants and their role as school principals. Informants participated in face-to-face interviews, which made use of unstructured open-ended questions, in an effort to give informants the opportunity and freedom to openly share their views and experiences from their own frame of reference. The qualitative research study was comprised of ten Latina women school principals in a western state. Each interview was tape recorded and transcribed verbatim. Quality measures of an audit trail, triangulation, and member check were conducted. All participant information was kept confidential and each was provided informed consent. Findings and Evidence-Based Solution: The study found five themes. These themes were: they had no defined limits, family played a vital role, they had mentors, had a need to influence lives, and were resilient. On a systemic level, the findings from this research study may help implement a mentoring program for aspiring Latina women leaders at the district level to help support Latina women who may under current circumstances be overlooked. The need for a mentoring program was supported by the findings. Implications of the Study: The results demonstrated a need to establish a formal mentoring program for aspiring Latina principals. Additionally, the following recommendations emerged: a focus on the hiring process, staff retentions, professional development, and networking groups. Further research in the area of Latina principals is warranted.
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