BEYOND THE CLASSROOM: THE CONTINUING IMPACT OF BROWN V BOARD ON EQUITABLE ACCESS to CAREER and TECHNICAL EDUCATION for HISTORICALLY UNDERREPRESENTED STUDENTS

Author

• Shannon HoodFollow

Abstract

Using a qualitative phenomenological design grounded in Critical Race Theory (CRT) and Culturally Relevant Pedagogy (CRP), this study examined how institutional structures, instructional practices, and community and industry partnerships shape equitable access, engagement, and outcomes in secondary Career and Technical Education (CTE) programs serving students from historically marginalized backgrounds. Semi-structured interviews were conducted with thirteen participants, including educators, administrators, and industry partners engaged in secondary CTE implementation. Thematic analysis identified recurring patterns related to leadership decision-making, instructional relevance, culturally responsive teaching practices, relational trust and advocacy, and authentic work-based learning (WBL) experiences. Findings indicate that equitable participation in CTE extends beyond enrollment and is shaped by organizational priorities, resource allocation, instructional alignment with students’ lived experiences, and structural barriers such as transportation challenges, economic constraints, and competing responsibilities. Participants described culturally responsive instruction, supportive relationships, and intentional leadership practices as key conditions supporting engagement and persistence. Results emphasize the importance of equity-centered leadership, intentional program design, and sustained partnerships in expanding meaningful participation and supporting postsecondary readiness.

Year manuscript completed

2026

Year degree awarded

2026

Author's Keywords

Career and Technical Education, Educational Equity, Critical Race Theory, Culturally Relevant Pedagogy, Work-Based Learning, Phenomenology

Degree Awarded

Doctor of Education

Department

Education

College/School

College of Education & Human Services

Dissertation Committee Chair

Jessica Pryor

Committee Member

Brian Bourke

Committee Member

LaChante Collier-Bacon

Document Type

Dissertation

Recommended Citation

Hood, Shannon, "BEYOND THE CLASSROOM: THE CONTINUING IMPACT OF BROWN V BOARD ON EQUITABLE ACCESS to CAREER and TECHNICAL EDUCATION for HISTORICALLY UNDERREPRESENTED STUDENTS" (2026). Murray State Theses and Dissertations. 435.
https://digitalcommons.murraystate.edu/etd/435