administration. Lack of discipline and moral within the schools result in the failure of the process of education itself. It is no surprise, therefore, that the South Bend students are among the lowest achievers on the ISTEP. The sad story of South Bend schools is a classic example of how damaging to the public good discrimination against women and minorities can be.It is also important for us to look beyond the local scene to the national picture to see what role is given to women and minorities in the administration of educational institutions. Several recent studies were able to unveil some hidden truths about women and minorities in the educational administration. The 1990 study by Patricia T. Whitfield entitled Status of Access of Women and Minorities to Administrative Positions in Idaho is a case in point. This study focused on the status of women and minorities in administrative positions in Idaho public schools. Statistically Whitfield documented that among administrators of Idaho public schools only approximately 20% were women and only about 7% minorities. She cites the “old boy network,” family responsibilities, lack of mentors or role models, a late entry into career tracks, and difficulty in gaining credibility as the reasons for this poor representation of women and minorities. As for the possible remedy for this situation, Whitfield received different responses from the administrators and members of the women and minority groups. While the administrators indicated that change/progress would come through their efforts, the women’s and minority groups felt that progress will come only through equal opportunity policies and legislation. I am sure that similar responses will be forthcoming from other comparable groups in all parts of the country. (Patricia T. Whitfield, Status of Women Minorities toAdministrative Positions in Idaho. ERIC TITLE NUMBER: ED 323907).It is also important to compa...
