Date of Award

5-11-2025

Date Published

June 2025

Degree Type

Dissertation

Degree Name

Doctor of Education (EdD)

Department

Teaching and Leadership

Advisor(s)

George Theoharis

Subject Categories

Education | Educational Leadership

Abstract

ABSTRACT Family involvement varies based on family structure, creating challenges for single mothers of color in engaging with schools. These mothers, particularly in urban settings, often require specific supports to facilitate participation in their children’s education. Understanding their barriers is crucial for fostering inclusive family involvement practices. Many marginalized women's experiences remain unheard, making it essential to address this gap and develop strategies that better support their engagement. This study examines how district and school-level efforts impact family involvement for single mothers of color, particularly in urban schools. This qualitative study explores the experiences of four single mothers—two of Latina heritage and two of African American descent—whose children attend four different schools in a large urban district in Central New York. Data were collected through semi-structured and focus group interviews, participant observations, and family video recordings. The study was framed using critical race theory, critical race parenting, and critical mothering frameworks. The research sought to answer the following questions: (a) how have the personal experiences of single mothers of color shaped their perceptions of education as they raise their own school-aged children? And (b) in what ways do single mothers of color experience and navigate the challenges of parenting their school-aged children? Deductive coding methods identified key themes: barriers to engagement, communication preferences, desire for collaboration, and socioeconomic impact. Findings indicate that schools often overlook the specific needs of single mothers of color, applying a one-size-fits-all approach that fails to foster meaningful engagement. Addressing these challenges is essential for more inclusive and effective family involvement practices.

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Open Access

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