The Modern Urban: School Choice and the Misappropriation of the Urban Experience of Preservice Teachers

• In Event: Perspectives of Urban Teachers and Administrators

Abstract

The purpose of the paper is to interrogate what we considered to be the “modern urban” in a city and national environment that is deeply influenced by neoliberal educational and social reforms. Specifically, this Midwestern city is experiencing massive gentrification, an increase of magnet and charter schools, and the forced relocation of students of color to lesser schools to make space for middle class white families entering the district. Additionally, this paper examines the impact of pre-service teacher education field placements of four elementary teachers placed in both magnet and traditional public elementary schools. Finally, we suggest school choice field placement reinforces stereotypes and racialized notions of students of color due to their experiences in overly white “urban” classrooms.

Authors

• Alycia M. Elfreich, Indiana University - Indianapolis

• Erik James Shaver, Ball State University