Place and Race: Examining the Retention of Teachers of Color in a Predominantly Rural State

• In Event: 15.027 - Equity and Inclusion Issues in Teacher Recruitment and Retention Research

Abstract

The recruitment and retention of teachers of color has garnered scholarly attention over the past 20 years, but existing research is predominantly situated in urban contexts and few studies center race. This qualitative study employed focus groups to understand the influences on teachers of color’s decisions to stay in eastern Iowa schools, districts, and communities. Key findings include: a) the significance of place in participants’ decisions to teach in Iowa schools; b) the importance of respect that teachers of color garner in their communities; and c) the added roles teachers of color play and the influence of these roles on their decisions to stay. This study has implications for the field and for efforts to diversify the teaching workforce.

Authors

• Kristine Lewis Grant, Drexel University

• Circe Stumbo, West Wind Education Policy Inc.

• Deanna DeNae Hill, West Wind Education Policy Inc.