Invisible Barriers to Diversifying the Teacher Pipeline: An Examination of Racial Gatekeepers in Teacher Education

• In Event: AERA Virtual Poster Session
  In Virtual Poster Session: Division K - Teaching and Teacher Education Virtual Poster Session

Abstract

Powerful movements are declaring that “Black Lives Matter” and demanding the dismantling of inequities across the United States. One domain where structural racism must be challenged is the barriers to admission of Black and Brown candidates to credential programs. In this mixed-methods study, we illustrate the impact of these gatekeeper tests on the teacher pipeline in California. While there is anecdotal evidence on the effect of these tests on access to teacher preparation programs, there is a demand for more information on the effects of these tests on the diversity of the teacher corps. This study draws from qualitative and quantitative data to highlight and address the impact of entrance exams on the recruitment and retention of teachers of color.

Authors

• Ruchi Agarwal-Rangnath, University of San Francisco
  Presenting Author

• Rick Ayers, University of San Francisco
  Presenting Author