Mentorship and Development of Black Women Teachers: Preliminary Findings from Studies in Progress

• In Event: AERA Research in Progress Roundtable Session Four
  In Invited Roundtable: Research-in-Progress RT050 (Saturday)

Abstract

Research has shown that Black women have entered the teaching profession at a higher rate than white women, but tend not to remain in the profession. Part of this may be explained by the hostile racial environments, as well as the way their contributions are undervalued by traditional evaluation practices. In light of the attritive forces of these climates and evaluation practices, diversity, mentorship, and development would seem obvious avenues into the issue. This proposal describes research into this phenomenon through two studies from two disparate environments. Together, they could provide critical insight into flaws in current notions around affirming Black women teachers and possible new avenues to build more effective support and development structures.

Authors

• Janelle Blackstone, American University

• Dylan Ravdin, American University and Bronx Charter School for the Arts