Inception to Induction: Growing Your Own Educators in Rural Communities

• In Event: Marriott Roundtable Session Ten
  In Roundtable Session: Rural Teacher Retention and Recruitment Strategies (Table 4)

Abstract

This session will focus on a qualitative study utilizing focus groups with structured questions. The study participants were limited to current candidates in one of four Grow Your Own cohorts being implemented through a regional university. The cohorts focus on preparing paraprofessionals and long-term substitute teachers in rural areas as either special educators or elementary educators. The researchers will share themes from these focus groups, which focus on their personal experience in cohort education at varying points within their preparation programs. This research will inform the field on the benefits and barriers associated with preparing school staff in rural areas to enter the field of education and to help meet the need during the current teacher shortage.

Authors

• Kathryn A. Havercroft, Eastern Illinois University
  Presenting Author

• Alexis Jones, Eastern Illinois University
  Presenting Author

• Melissa Jones-Bromenshenkel, Eastern Illinois University
  Presenting Author

• Denise Reid, Eastern Illinois University
  Presenting Author

• Brian D. Reid, School Transformation Group
  Presenting Author