Challenging the Marginalization of Preschool Teachers of Color

• In Event: Perspectives on Humanizing and Antiracist Teaching and Professional Development

Abstract

Black women early childhood educators play a significant and important role in the education of young children. Their teaching practices are infused with culturally relevant experiences, particularly the children of Color they teach. They are underpaid, under-resourced, and undervalued by the education system. Notwithstanding the professional challenges they face, and the challenges of racism and sexism in their daily lives, this study highlights the personal and cultural knowledge of children and childhood development that the eight Black women bring to their classroom. They bring rich and deep understandings of the Black students they teach, their students’ communities, develop strong relationships with parents, and offer a safe and generative learning environment.

Authors

• Jameelah R Wright, Montclair State University

• Jeremy N. Price, Montclair State University