School Context, Teacher Perceptions, and Hiring: A Culture of Change or Changing a Culture

• In Event: Roundtable Session 7
  In Roundtable Session: The Role of Teachers for School Improvement

Abstract

Changing the culture of mathematics instruction to one that is more student-centered and standards-based requires fundamental shifts in understanding of what it means to teach mathematics. The change in culture may be even greater in schools that serve low-income students of color. The interpretation and implementation of mathematics standards filters through many levels before it reaches the classroom, including principals and school-based leaders. These leaders must consider who to hire as new teachers in situations where they want to change or have already changed their cultures. The preconceptions new teachers have as to what mathematics instruction looks like may be important in which schools they will successfully learn to teach in a student-centered way.

Authors

• Deena Khalil, Howard University

• Emily J. Yanisko, Urban Teachers