Superintendents’ strategic leadership for just and equitable systemic change

Dr Lok-Sze Wong studies system reform policies as attempts to address systemic inequities. Drawing on education, sociocultural and organization theories and mixed methods, her research unpacks how systems (re)produce inequities and how to humanely reform schools and districts as complex social systems. She focuses on professional learning opportunities that support teachers and administrators as they shift their practices while redesigning the very organizations in which they work. Dr Wong began her career in education as an elementary school teacher in Los Angeles. Dr Wong has a Ph.D. in Educational Administration and Policy from the University of Michigan.

Dr Stephen F. Waddell, recognized as a leader in public education nationally and in Texas, led transformative change for two decades as superintendent. His innovations in technology integration, instructional practices, and community engagement earned him accolades from Texas Association of School Administrators and Texas Computer Education Association. A founding member of the Texas Visioning Institute, he shaped legislative reforms and educational standards. Dr Waddell now serves as Executive in Residence at the University of North Texas, leveraging his 44-year career to inspire future educators. He holds degrees from the University of North Texas and Stephen F. Austin State University.

Tatiana Kurochkina studies the communication aspect of educational leadership and preparation of educational leaders. Her research aims to draw attention to the need for more guided and explicit training in communication and conflict resolution for educational leaders, because communication is the tool leaders use to solve problems and address inequities. Tatiana worked as an ESL teacher for 10+ years before obtaining a Ph.D. in Educational Leadership from the University of North Texas.