The Impact of a Licensure Exam Change on Black Elementary Teachers in Arkansas

• In Event: AERA Roundtable Session 6
  In Roundtable Session: Teacher Education, Licensure, Evaluation, and Accountability

Abstract

Between 2000 and 2018, the number of Black teachers increased by just 11,000 i.e., less than 1,000 per year. In comparison, the number Hispanic and Asian teachers grew by 162,000 and 27,000 respectively. In general, Black teachers are the least likely of all demographic groups to pass licensure exams. However, the impact of changes in licensure exams on declining numbers of Black teachers is not well understood. This paper uses the difference-in-differences estimator to assess the impact of exam type in the number Black elementary teachers in Arkansas following a change in exam type to a more rigorous licensure exam. Results highlight the challenge licensure exams present in increasing in teacher diversity. Recommendations for policy and practice are discussed.

Author

• Tina L. Fletcher, University of Pennsylvania