Examining Why Teachers of Color Leave the Teaching Profession

• In Event: Marriott Roundtable Session 9
  In Roundtable Session: Sustaining and Belonging in Higher Education

Abstract

This qualitative study examines why teachers of color decided to leave the teaching profession. Four former teachers of color from around the US were recruited via social media, email, and personal contacts. Each participant drew a journey map of their experience entering and exiting the teaching profession, then met with a member of the research team to explain their illustration in an interview. Individual teacher stories are presented, as well as common themes among all participants. The study is framed by literature on teachers of color and teacher attrition, as well as critical race theory.

Authors

• Sherry Marx, Utah State University

• Sarah Braden, University of Utah

• Andrea M. Hawkman, Utah State University

• Alyson Lavigne, Utah State University

• Isaiah Jones, Utah State University

• Sara Gailey, Utah State University

• Justin Andersen, Canyons School District

• gordon geddes, Utah State University

• Shouqing Si, Utah State University

• Karen Washburn, Utah State University