Culturally Competent School Leaders: The Individual and the System

Cultural competence is the knowledge, behaviors, and dispositions necessary to effectively interact with other cultural groups. Two case studies are presented which illustrate the cultural competence of administrators in urban settings. Theories are reviewed to investigate the themes of cultural competence that emerged from the professional challenges faced by the two school leaders. The article suggests individual and system supports for administrators to effectively lead and advocate for an array of diverse students and their families. (Contains 1 table.)