"We're Here, but Y'all Don't Make It Easy": Barriers and Opportunities for Diversifying the Profession

• In Event: Residency and Induction Programs in Diverse Communities and Contexts

Abstract

This paper explores barriers and opportunities that constrain or enable the participation of candidates of color in a graduate-level urban teacher residency program. Utilizing a qualitative approach, we combine descriptive survey data, case studies, and documentary research. Centering four prospective teacher residents whose experiences on their pursuit of a pathway to teaching typify the structural barriers as well as the openings offered by a non-traditional pathway, we use documentary inquiry into state and university policies, regulations, and procedures to contextualize residency candidates’ experiences. We highlight barriers, make policy-related proposals, and identify supports that open opportunities for teachers of color and describe how these can be leveraged more broadly to recruit, mentor, and retain a diverse community of teachers.

Authors

• Amanda Winkelsas, University at Buffalo - SUNY

• Ling Zhai, University at Buffalo - SUNY

• Elisabeth Etopio, University at Buffalo - SUNY

• Julie Gorlewski, University at Buffalo - SUNY

• Suzanne N. Rosenblith, University at Buffalo - SUNY

• Nooshin Shafaei, University at Buffalo - SUNY