Equity-Driven Leadership in School Counseling

Drawing from the authors' experience as former school counselors, their research on school counselor leadership and advocacy, and their professional advocacy work, this book provides insights and strategies to develop school counselors' leadership skills. The book is divided into two parts. The first part focuses on self-reflection and critical consciousness for school counselors. It challenges their understanding of leadership and urges them to critically examine whether their personal definition of leadership aligns with the needs of diverse students and the broader educational context. Chapter topics include leadership and liberation, the limits of traditional leadership theories, leading with emotional intelligence, and the courage to confront systems of oppression. The second part calls the reader toward critical action and engagement in social and political activity and advocacy with the intent to disrupt and change perceived inequalities. Specific topics include developing political skills, addressing resistance to change, and developing collaborative relationships. School counselors will find this book filled with the necessary knowledge and skills to effect change in schools, districts, and the public arena for the benefit of K-12 students, particularly those from historically marginalized populations.