Pláticas With Veteran Teachers: Centering Equity in Teaching Is a Marathon, not a Sprint

• In Event: AERA Roundtable Session Wednesday 9:00 am Four Seasons Ballroom 1
  In Roundtable Session: Navigating Equity: Addressing Racism and Social Justice in Education (Table 2)

Abstract

This study focuses on the professional trajectory of veteran teachers and their reasons to remain in teaching when so many are leaving. Using pláticas methodology, we engaged a diverse group of teachers in conversations to learn about their teaching experiences-- their personal and professional challenges stemming from contextual variables, social-cultural forces, and the changing teaching profession. Results indicate that these veteran teachers have stayed because they have accessed support from colleagues and professional organizations; because they have an urgency to support new teachers in ways they did not feel supported; and most of all, they stay because of their deep commitment to their students and communities. Veteran teachers call on educational researchers to address critical policy and systemic issues.

Authors

• Margarita Jimenez-Silva, University of California - Davis

• Eleonora Villegas-Reimers, Boston University

• Janine Bempechat, Boston University