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A narrative study: examining gender disparities in superintendency roles
Dissertation   Open access

A narrative study: examining gender disparities in superintendency roles

Alexandria DeCicco
Doctor of Education (Ed.D.), Drexel University
Mar 2026
DOI:
https://doi.org/10.17918/00011278
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Abstract

Educational leadership Gender bias Intersectionality Narrative inquiry Women superintendents Women's critical theory
Women remain significantly underrepresented in the public school superintendency despite comprising approximately 77% of classroom teachers. This narrative inquiry explored the lived experiences of five women superintendents in Pennsylvania and New York to understand how they construct meaning from their professional journeys and to determine whether these experiences reflect or resist the tenets of women's critical theory. Using structural narrative analysis and thematic coding, the researcher analyzed in-depth interviews with participants representing diverse racial backgrounds (three White women and two Black women). Four interconnected themes emerged: Managing Emotions, Influence of Motherhood, Mentorship, and Gendered Experiences. Cross-narrative analysis identified convergent patterns, including mentorship as an essential pathway, heightened scrutiny requiring exceptional preparation, strategic navigation of bias, and commitment to supporting future women leaders. Significant divergent patterns emerged reflecting intersectional differences between White women and Black women participants. The findings confirm that gender operates as a system of power relations, privileging masculine norms while marginalizing feminine approaches. Participants demonstrated both reflection of and resistance to dominant narratives, asserting the value of relational leadership and committing to transforming organizational cultures for future generations. Recommendations address formal mentorship programs, professional development addressing gender bias, and explicit attention to gendered dimensions in leadership preparation programs.

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