This is a problem for students, schools, and the public at large. Teachers of color serve as role models for students, giving them a clear and concrete sense of what diversity in education—and in our society—looks like. A recent review of empirical studies also shows that students of color do better on a variety of academic outcomes if they’re taught by teachers of color.2
files.eric.ed.gov/fulltext/ED535665.pdf
A PDF from Center for American Progress discusses why teacher diversity matters. The diversity of teachers in education is important because students look up to these teachers and knowing that they can relate to them motivates their progress in school. The awareness of being able relate to their teachers gives students the comfort of opening up in their classes allowing them to become more involved. Color students will be able to do better because both the students and the teachers will understand each other due to similar backgrounds and views.
ReplyDeleteIdentifying with the race and experiences of their educators, allows students of color to see themselves within paradigms of power. It shifts their thinking and allows them to see a place for themselves within spheres of influence in the global world. Students are often encouraged and motivated when they recognize their own voices in the system they are navigating.
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