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Beyond the Brochure: Exploring the Reality of Belonging in South Florida Private Schools

  • Jennifer Vigille

Student thesis: Doctoral ThesisDoctor of Philosophy

Abstract

This applied dissertation was designed to explore Black parents’ perceptions of teachers and leadership in predominantly White private schools. The research drew on a rich body of literature on race, education, and social dynamics in diverse school settings. The study addressed the ongoing challenges Black families faced in navigating these environments, particularly in terms of communication and cultural competence. The central research questions investigated how Black parents experienced and interpreted teacher and leadership relationships and support in predominately White private schools. The study hypothesized that Black parents perceived significant gaps in communication and cultural competence among educators and leaders, affecting their children’s overall educational experiences. Using a phenomenological approach, the study collected qualitative data through in-depth semi-structured interviews with a sample of Black parents.
Date of AwardJan 1 2025
Original languageEnglish
SupervisorKaren Kill (Supervisor), Arezou Sobhani (Advisor) & Kimberly Durham (Advisor)

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