Transnational Teachers Journeys: Confronting Challenges and Adapting Cambios in Bilingual Schools

• In Event: Bilingual Education for Whom?

Abstract

As the demand for bilingual teachers increases, teachers are often recruited from Latin America to teach in U.S schools; however, little research has examined the unique challenges and assets these transnational teachers bring to DLBE programs. This study used pláticas to explore the experiences of two Boricua teachers in a DLBE school in the mid-Atlantic. Using an Anzalduan framework, we analyze how teachers navigate and negotiate between different cultural worlds (Anzaldua, 2015). Findings revealed that transnational teachers confronted challenges in the transition of educational systems, enacted cambios, co-constructed a liminal space as boricuas and colegas. Our study offers implications for more linguistically and culturally responsive teacher education as we strive to de-center English hegemony and whiteness in teacher education.

Authors

• Astrid Sierra, Metropolitan State University of Denver

• Melinda E. Martin-Beltran, University of Maryland

• Amanda D. Cataneo, University of Maryland