What Do You Expect From Us? Perspectives of Black Male Educators in K–12 Settings

• In Event: AERA Roundtable Session 1
  In Roundtable Session: Strength of Voice: Narratives of Persons of Color in Education

Abstract

With the increased emphasis and need to diversify the educator workforce, the recruitment and retention of Black male educators is critical. We focused on how they perceive their impact as role models and what others expect from them in K-12 contexts. We administered questionnaires (N=38) and conducted interviews (N=11). Most educators considered themselves to be positive role models, especially for Black students. Expectations about their responsibilities as disciplinarians were positive unless imposed by race or at the expense of perceived academic skills. They needed to prove themselves with respect to academic qualifications. Interpersonal relationships were curtailed by their need for self-preservation, and dispelling stereotypes. Finally, educators described inequities, little support, and underrepresentation of Black males in their schools.

Authors

• Kendra Hall, Old Dominion University

• Linda Bol, Old Dominion University

• Denelle Wallace-Alexander, Norfolk State University

• Erin Cousins, Old Dominion University