Searching for Satisfaction: Black Female Teachers' Workplace Climate and Job Satisfaction

• In Event: Critical Analysis of Race, Girls, and Women in Education

Abstract

Job satisfaction is noted as one avenue that may decrease teacher attrition. Further, job satisfaction correlates with teacher retention, which may influence school building climate and student achievement. Potentially impacting students’ progress and seeking to reduce attrition rates among a subgroup of Black teachers, this quantitative study uses data from the National Center for Education Statistics Schools and Staffing Survey 2007-2008 to examine Black female teachers’ job satisfaction. Findings suggest that Black female teachers job satisfaction increases when they are positioned in an urban, non-charter school, receive administrative support, experience positive student behavior and are committed to teaching. Concluding, recommendations are offered for teacher education programs and school leaders seeking to improve Black female teachers’ job satisfaction.

Authors

• Abiola A. Farinde, University of Pittsburgh

• Paul G. Fitchett, University of North Carolina - Charlotte