| Ulysses Navarrette spells out the national mission of ALAS |
The Association of Latino Administrators and Superintendents (ALAS) is a national organization committed to advancing equitable educational opportunities for Latino and Latina students across the U.S. Founded on the principle that leadership matters, especially leadership that reflects and understands the communities it serves, ALAS works to cultivate Latino leaders in education and influence national policy to remove barriers that have historically limited the success of Latino students.
At the heart of ALAS’ mission is the firm belief that representation in education leadership is not just important, it is transformational. Latino students currently make up nearly one third of the K-12 student population in the U.S., and that number continues to grow. Despite this, Latino representation in leadership roles (i.e. superintendents, district administrators, and policymakers) remains disproportionately low. ALAS was created to change this narrative by mentoring and supporting Latino educators as they move into positions of influence and decision-making power, where they can shape policies and systems that better serve diverse student populations.
On a national level, ALAS is deeply engaged in advocacy, research, and professional development initiatives that address the systemic inequities facing Latino students. Our legislative agenda centers around several key pillars aimed at fostering academic and social success. Among our top priorities is the continued expansion and support of the Seal of Biliteracy, a program that recognizes high school graduates who have attained proficiency in two or more languages. ALAS acknowledges the cultural and linguistic assets Latino students bring to the classroom and reinforces the value of bilingualism as a 21st-century skill with real-world applications.
Bilingualism, in fact, is more than a cultural bridge; it is a pathway to academic achievement, cognitive development, and career readiness. Research consistently shows that bilingual students outperform their monolingual peers in several areas including problem-solving and multitasking. The ability to navigate multiple languages is a competitive advantage in our increasingly globalized economy. ALAS champions policies and practices at the national level that expand dual-language programs, encourage culturally responsive pedagogy, and elevate bilingualism as a strength and a superpower, not a barrier. This is why we are partnering with the American Association of Teachers of Spanish and Portuguese (AATSP) and will be attending the 107th conference in June. Through this partnership we hope to share in the work and the rewards for each AATSP member and ultimately all students!
In addition to promoting linguistic equity, ALAS advocates for full funding of public education programs that remove systemic barriers for Latino students, particularly as they transition into post- secondary education. This includes increasing access to college prep courses, expanding scholarship opportunities, and dismantling discriminatory practices in the college admissions process. Far too often Latino students face additional hurdles that have absolutely nothing to do with ability or ambition and are rooted in a lack of access to resources, culturally appropriate curriculum, and guidance counseling. Because of this, many of our youth fail to recognize their full potential. ALAS works to ensure federal and state policies are designed with these realities in mind, and that Latino students are supported by Latino leaders to ensure those students graduate from high school and thrive in whatever path they choose.
As part of our national reach, ALAS engages with lawmakers, educational agencies, and coalitions to influence legislation and secure critical investments in Latino education. We provide testimony, produce policy briefs, and partner with organizations that share our mission of equity and inclusion. This advocacy is informed by the lived experiences of our members which includes superintendents, principals and other educational leaders who bring firsthand knowledge of the challenges and opportunities present in today’s schools.
ALAS also serves as a professional network and leadership pipeline for Latino educators. Through our National Principal and Superintendent Leadership Academies, our 18 affiliates across 25 states, and annual summit, we provide training, mentorship, and a platform for collaboration and innovation. Educational equity begins with empowered leadership who are committed to dismantling the barriers that prevent full participation and achievement.
Today, educational equity and representation are more urgent than ever. ALAS is poised to create a more just, inclusive, and successful education system through our prepared leaders so that our students can thrive—and when they do, so will our nation!
So whether you are a K-12 lead teacher, aspiring leader, assistant principal, principal, district / central office employee, superintendent, or even in higher education… ALAS can support you! The networking opportunities, professional development, and resources you will find will not only help you soar higher than you ever have before, it will also expand your familia Latina! Recuerdan que en la Unión está la Fuerza!
Ulysses Navarrete is the executive director of the Association of Latino Administrators and Superintendents (ALAS). He is an advocate for Latino children across the nation and a seasoned business leader. His personal mantra “Make It About Them Always” underscores his dedication to prioritizing the needs of students and administrators alike.