Leading a Quiet Revolution: Women High School Principals in Traditional Arab Society in Israel

Abstract

This article investigates why very few Arab women persevere to become principals in Arab high schools in Israel. It identifies these trailblazers’ distinguishing characteristics through the narratives of two Arab women, high school principals, tracing their transition from teaching to management, describing the intertwining of their personal and professional lives, examining their career choices from a gender perspective, and noting the changes they have implemented within Arab high schools in Israel. Research indicates that Arab society still views school principalship as a male role and that women face political and social resistance to attain this role.