Unpacking Teacher Diversity: Race, Racialization, and Teacher Hiring in Ontario

• In Event: Structural Issues Effecting the Teacher Workforce

Abstract

This paper posits that while Ontario has witnessed widespread educational policy implementation concerning equity, diversity and inclusion with the purpose of diversifying teacher demographics, such policies have largely been based on “bias-free” hiring practices. Ontario is hailed as one of the world’s most diverse regions, teachers across the province do not equitably reflect the identities and demographics of the student population. The study demonstrates that teacher experiences with securing permanent employment in publicly-funded school boards strongly correlate with ethno-racial identity.

Authors

• Zuhra Abawi, Niagara University

• Ardavan Eizadirad, Wilfrid Laurier University