Teacher Leaders as Change Agents for Equity in STEM Education

• In Event: 66.034 - Teacher Leaders: Agency, Advocacy, and Change

Abstract

Reaching equitable participation and achievement remains a challenge in STEM subjects. Teacher leaders (TLs) in STEM subjects are well-positioned to address equity issues, as they function as a bridge between teachers and administrators. They can utilize their content and pedagogical expertise to be change agents for equity in their schools and beyond. As faculty, we participated in a state-funded grant to engage STEM TLs in a leadership academy. We asked: What types of change can TLs enact with respect to equity issues in STEM? We share two cases to illustrate how teacher leadership can lead to equitable outcomes for students in terms of performance or participation. We close with implications for university-based instructors who support TLs.

Authors

• Toya Jones Frank, George Mason University

• Lori C. Bland, George Mason University