Overcoming Racial Barriers: A Partnership Model Between a Middle School and College of Education

• In Event: Action Research: Honoring Social Justice in School Settings

Abstract

One university in the southeast US initiated a collaboration with a "failing", urban middle school, to foster learning and service between both institutions. The purpose of this research was to develop a model for change whereby institutions of higher education can establish or enhance relationships that facilitate learning from public schools to inform higher education programs, develop challenging schools into places to prepare preservice teachers, and ultimately impact student achievement, particularly in a school lacking resources. The research details the process, from the birth of the idea; formation of the collaboration; processes to build relationships between the college and students; key initiatives and involvement of stakeholders; and challenges in implementation and outcomes of year one and year two.

Authors

• Andrea M. Kent, University of South Alabama

• Joel Lewis-Billingsly, University of South Alabama

• André M. Green, University of South Alabama