A Life History of a Latina Teacher: Resistance as a Source of Empowerment

• In Event: Educators of Color on Race and Resistance

Abstract

While research on the marginalization of Latinx teachers has increased, a paucity of research has documented the powerful ways that Latinx teachers resist, challenge, and transform. Informed by the conceptual tools of conformist and transformative resistance, this life history study chronicles the experiences of a Latina science teacher who practiced multiple forms of resistance against the systematic challenges she faced during her educational and professional life. Analysis of interviews and written documents revealed that teachers’ resistant identities are not constructed merely because of their backgrounds, but instead evolve across multiple contexts over time. Teresa’s story highlights valuable lessons for teacher educators working with teachers of color to improve the ways in which they are supported and retained in the profession.

Authors

• Mehtap Kirmaci, University of Georgia - Athens

• Martha Allexsaht-Snider, University of Georgia - Athens