Editor’s note: Community Voices features first-person narratives and stories from Oakland residents and leaders. These essays represent the author’s perspective and experiences.
When I stepped into the principal role at Thornhill Elementary School this year, I became the first Black principal and the first woman to lead this school.
This milestone represents more than a title. It represents an opportunity to shape what belonging looks like for students, families, and staff.
I think a lot about belonging. I want every student and every family who walks onto this campus to feel like this school was built for them too.
I think a lot about belonging. I want every student and every family who walks onto this campus to feel like this school was built for them too.
More Black women joining OUSD leadership
I am one of several Black women leaders who were recruited and supported through the leadership of Dr. Sabrina “Bri” Moore within Oakland Unified School District. Moore intentionally created opportunities for Black women to step into principalship roles while building a leadership community grounded in collaboration and support.
Our work at Thornhill reflects the promise of that leadership. At our elementary schools, we’re really delivering on the vision Dr. Moore helped cultivate. She didn’t just hire Black women leaders. She supported us, guided us, and believed in our leadership.
Moore’s impact has extended beyond traditional supervision. She’s been much more than someone who oversees schools. She has been an advocate, a guide, and someone who kept us grounded through a lot of transitions. For many of us, she has truly stood beside us in the work.
There’s a larger shift happening across Oakland schools. Increasingly, Black women are stepping into leadership roles and bringing perspectives shaped by lived experience, community connection, and a deep commitment to equity.
For a long time, leadership in schools hasn’t always reflected the communities being served. Seeing more Black women in these roles matters. It sends a message to students that leadership can look like them, sound like them, and come from their communities.
Representation helps build trust with families as well. When families see leaders who understand their experiences, it helps create connection.
One of the first things I noticed was the strength of the partnership between families and the school. This community really shows up for kids. Families partner with the school in ways that make a real difference.
LaShante Scott
Building on Thornhill’s strengths
In my first year leading Thornhill, I am focused on strengthening both the academic and community foundation of the school. One of the first things I noticed was the strength of the partnership between families and the school. This community really shows up for kids. Families partner with the school in ways that make a real difference.
I’m proud of Thornhill’s strong literacy outcomes.
Unfortunately, many student supports are not fully funded by school districts. The supports that help students thrive, reading intervention, mental health resources, and services for multilingual learners, often rely on community support. In reality, those things are not extras. They’re essential.
I’ve also been intentional about building a staff that reflects the diversity of Oakland’s students. We’ve hired several Black staff members and we hope to recruit more educators of color. We want our students to see themselves in the adults around them. Representation matters for kids.
Rooted in ‘Liberated leadership’
My leadership philosophy is rooted in what I call, “liberated leadership.” As part of Lead Liberated, founded by Daneen Akers Keaton, my leadership practices are grounded in courage, transparency, and justice.
As a liberated leader, I believe in having brave conversations. My goal is to interrupt the pressure to conform and create spaces where Black students and staff feel protected, valued, and supported.
This work can be challenging, especially in spaces where Black students and educators are not the majority. While the work isn’t always easy, it matters. Many communities have experienced systems that created disadvantages over time, and we have to be honest about that reality.
At the same time, I lead by caring for every student. If you see me with any student, you’ll know the love and care are there. I care deeply about all of our kids.
‘A school where every child belongs’
I hope more families across Oakland will come to know Thornhill as a welcoming school community. I want Black families to know they belong here and that their children can thrive here too.
Thornhill’s strength lies in its commitment to both academic excellence and community connection. We’re building something really special here. This is a school where strong literacy, strong relationships, and strong community all come together.
We’re building a school where every child belongs.
LaShante Scott was born in Oakland. She was a math teacher for 12 years and has been with OUSD for four years. She is also a proud OUSD parent.
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