Dr. DeMarcus Jenkins

Dr. DeMarcus Jenkins comes to us from the University of Arizona College of Education, where he was an assistant professor of education policy studies and practice and an affiliate in the Department of Geography. He earned his Ph.D. from the University of California, Los Angeles (UCLA) the Division of Urban Schooling. He holds an Ed.M. in English Education from Georgia State University, a master's from American University, and his bachelor’s degree from The University of Michigan, where he double-majored in English and African American Studies.

Dr. Jenkins is an activist and urban scholar whose work considers the intersections of race, space, and policy. His research focuses on the influence of spatial, social, and political factors that foster and exacerbate inequalities for Black populations, as well as the approaches that school leaders take to disrupt and transform these dynamics. His interdisciplinary approach to tackling complex and challenging racial equity problems in schools is informed by Black critical theory, critical spatial theory, Black geographies, critical policy studies, and justice-oriented leadership frameworks. Consistent throughout his research are practical solutions for school leaders and policymakers.

He recently received a research grant from the Spencer Foundation to examine how urban school systems respond to policy changes that divest and disinvest from law enforcement on school campuses. His research program draws from his previous professional experience working in urban schools and local and state policy and advocacy.