Grow-Your-Own Program Leaders: Two Narrative Inquiry Case Studies in Rural Arizona Contexts

• In Event: Thursday Roundtable Session 10:50 am
  In Roundtable Session: Stories of the Rural Experience in Education (Table 16)

Abstract

This research explores the potential of Grow-Your-Own (GYO) programs in addressing teacher shortages and fostering diversity within the teaching profession in Arizona. Through qualitative interviews, this study explores the motivations, challenges, and perceptions of the GYO’s impact on program leaders’ personal and professional growth. The research findings shed light on the participants’ experiences and reflections, highlighting the significance of GYO programs in nurturing a sense of community within local educational settings. Employing narrative inquiry the study reveals critical factors influencing program effectiveness and makes recommendations to enhance the design and implementation of GYO initiatives. The study’s insights contribute to the understanding of GYO programs’ role in addressing the teacher shortage and creating a more inclusive teaching workforce.

Authors

• Gabriela Mocanu, SUNY - College at Potsdam

• Nesma Ragab Nasr, Northern Arizona University

• Yuanyibo Zhang, Northern Arizona University

• Vicki Ross, Northern Arizona University