Relationships, Relationships, Relationships: Recruitment Strategies of a Pathways Program to Increase African American Teacher Representation

• In Event: AERA Virtual Poster Session 3
  In Poster Session: Research Focus on Black Education SIG Poster Session

Abstract

There is a critical shortage of Black teachers in the United States, as 16% of students in U.S. public schools are Black but only 7% of public school teachers are Black (USDOE, 2016). This study examines African American Teaching Force (AATF), a pathways program located in a small city that reflects an “urban characteristic” setting (Milner, 2019) where African American teachers are underrepresented when compared to student demographics. Through a document analysis, a survey, and interviews, this study sought to understand recruitment strategies AATF employs to increase the representation of Black teachers locally. AATF builds and cultivates strong relationships with potential fellows, current fellows, and program allies to increase local Black teacher representation.

Authors

• Brian Kayser, University of Virginia

• Abigail Akosua Amoako Kayser, California State University - Fullerton