Rethinking Mentoring for Teachers of Color: Addressing Gaps and Enhancing Support

• In Event: AERA Roundtable Session Friday 9:50 am Four Seasons Ballroom 2-3
  In Roundtable Session: Mentoring in Education (Table 3)

Abstract

Currently, 80% of U.S. public school teachers are White and female. Students of color are projected to make up 50% of the student population by 2026. Many Black students may never have a Black teacher throughout their PK-12 education. Retaining teachers of color (TOC) is crucial for improving the educational experience of students of color. Despite mandatory mentoring programs, attrition rates for TOC remain high, with nearly 30% of Black teachers leaving after their first year during some school years. This study explores what aspects of mentoring are beneficial for TOC and what additional support they seek. The study identifies gaps in mentoring practices and proposes improvements, including culturally responsive mentor training and more thoughtful mentor-mentee matching.

Author

• Franchesca R. Ho Sang, Hunter College