"It's a Different Ball Game": Understanding the Shifting Role of Cooperating Teachers in "Grow Your Own" Partnerships

• In Event: Diversifying the Teacher Workforce for and From Diverse Communities and Contexts

Abstract

Recruiting paraprofessionals of color into “Grow Your Own” (GYO) licensure programs is a promising approach to increasing diversity in the teaching profession. However, we know very little about how paraprofessionals develop disciplinary and pedagogical knowledge in the context of GYO programming, and what factors advance or impede their learning and development in these settings. This qualitative study contributes to the growing body of GYO scholarship by identifying unique challenges and opportunities that surface during GYO candidates’ field experiences, providing a glimpse into how CTs think about and respond to these situations, and suggesting resources and supports for those who elect to mentor GYO candidates.

Authors

• Mary Klehr, Madison Metropolitan School District/University of Wisconsin-Madison

• Kimberly Oamek, University of Wisconsin - Madison