Urban Elementary School Teacher Leaders' Advocacy Efforts in a "Post-Truth" Era: A Multiple-Case Study

• In Event: 63.048 - Teacher Leadership for What? Critical Advocacy for a More Just World

Abstract

Teacher leaders in urban schools are becoming more-active advocates for the education profession in today’s “post-truth” era. They are working within and beyond the classroom to foster positive change in education. To help teachers who are new to advocacy better understand what it is and how to participate in it, this multiple case study examined five urban elementary school teachers who regularly engage in advocacy work. The findings indicate that teacher leaders speak up for issues that are directly or indirectly related to their schools’ curricula. In addition, they learn from experienced advocates in the beginning and then later teach colleagues and students how to advocate. Teacher leaders’ advocacy efforts reap benefits for their students, colleagues, schools, and communities.

Author

• Nathan Bond, Texas State University