Hidden Agendas Behind Closed Doors

Exploring Corruption, Power Struggles, and Educator Burnout in the Nation’s Largest School District

Welcome to this essential mini-course, the first project focused on ‘building on the best of what is’ by documenting real-life experiences with corruption and retaliation within the largest school district in the country. This course takes a deep dive into the complex power dynamics that shape decision-making in educational leadership, with a sharp focus on scapegoating, the blame game, and their detrimental effects on personal and professional well-being. Educators and administrators enter the field with an unwavering commitment to serve students and communities. However, systemic pressures, political maneuvering, and unethical leadership frequently create environments that unfairly target dedicated individuals. Through compelling case stories, expert insights, and firsthand narratives, I uncover how these damaging patterns harm individuals and drive burnout and high turnover in the education sector. By the end of this course, participants will gain a robust understanding of the tactics used to deflect accountability and explore practical strategies to navigate and confront these harmful dynamics. Whether you are an educator, administrator, or advocate, this course provides a powerful lens on the hidden struggles within our school systems and strives to cultivate a more transparent and just educational environment.