Navigate barriers and take actional steps toward equity

The principles of Cultural Proficiency have guided our drive toward equitable schools for decades. Leaders who apply this framework to scrutinize the beliefs and practices that have caused disproportionate harm to children of color and other marginalized students are frequently left with the question: "Now What?"

Using their unique insights and life experiences as Latina superintendents, the authors of Now What? Confronting Uncomfortable Truths About Inequity in Schools present a guide to navigating barriers, managing differences, and creating an actionable equity plan. Readers will find:

• a "What Next" guide for leaders at all levels to leverage Cultural Proficiency


• a Culturally Proficient Leadership Rubric for promoting growth


• an 8-Step Process to help educators gauge status and progress of their equity plan


• a discussion of the impact of COVID-19 on educational transformation, as well as heightened awareness of injustice, including the Black Lives Matter movement and mistreatment of immigrant children and families

Cultural Proficiency begins with us. By focusing on our beliefs and biases, and taking actionable steps, we can become more proficient at eliminating barriers.