Download our latest report and join us for a briefing on teacher diversity in Allegheny County RFA's Latest Study Sheds Light on the Challenges and Triumphs of Black Teachers in Allegheny County Schools Today, Research for Action (RFA) releases a new report titled Small but Mighty: Lessons from Black Teachers’ Experiences in Allegheny County. RFA’s previous analysis of teacher mobility in Allegheny County found that teachers of color left their positions at greater rates than White educators between 2014 and 2020. In addition, RFA has found a steady decline in both the share and the overall number of Black teachers in the region. This decline has exceeded the loss of the overall Black population, both in the City of Pittsburgh and in the rest of Allegheny County. This report shares findings from a community-informed research project designed to address the field’s lack of knowledge about the causes and subsequent consequences of this decline. RFA conducted a qualitative study to learn directly from Black teachers in the region about the barriers to recruitment and retention, and the findings include the following key takeaways: Black teachers offer Allegheny County students and schools several unique and important contributions, as every aspect of their role—including pedagogies and practices—is informed by both their identity and their purpose for choosing this profession. Their unique contributions include: Strong relationships and special connections with Black students, which are impacted by shared cultural backgrounds and experiences between Black teachers and students; intentional investment of teachers’ time and energy; and the importance of representation of Black teachers. Pedagogical approaches and practices such as culturally relevant teaching, maintaining high expectations, and alternative discipline strategies. Black teachers in Allegheny County face many challenges related to systemic and interpersonal racism that impact their experiences as educators. These include microaggressions, harm caused by White colleagues, unjust treatment from White district and school administrators, heavier workloads, and racism toward students. Participants also described several major challenges that may be experienced by all teachers in Allegheny County and beyond, such as issues with district/LEA mandates, policies, and expectations; issues with staffing and turnover; and inadequate pay. Compounded with the challenges unique to Black teachers, they further impact Black teachers’ experiences and contribute to Black teachers leaving the profession. Despite the numerous challenges they face, several current Black teachers expressed that they plan to remain in the profession in Allegheny County and shared the factors that contribute to their desire to continue teaching. These include their love for students; strong school leaders and positive school culture; supportive and affirming networks; and teachers’ investment in their careers. In addition to these findings, the report shares important information about the landscape that Black teachers are working within and specific recommendations for state policymakers, district, and charter school leaders, existing teacher diversity efforts, and broader community members. Download the Report     To learn more about our findings, register to attend our webinar on Thursday, November 16, 2023, at 1 pm ET on Zoom. Share on Social Giving voice to the untold stories of Black teachers in Allegheny County. @Research4Action’s latest study delves deep into their experiences and contributions. Learn how to improve teacher diversity and dismantle barriers to retaining teachers of color. [link removed] Post on X #ALERT - @Research4Action’s report reveals the hurdles Black teachers face in Allegheny County schools. Explore the findings and recommendations to foster a more inclusive and supportive education environment. [link removed] #TeacherDiversity #eduTwitter Post on X 🗣️Calling all advocates for #teacherdiversity! Learn from the voices of Black teachers in Allegheny County. @Research4Action’s new study provides key takeaways & actionable recommendations. Save the date for their webinar on 11/16. [link removed] #AlleghenyTeachersStudy Post on X   2023 © Research for Action | Website   Research for Action | Land Title Building, 100 South Broad Street, Suite 700, Philadelphia, PA 19110 Unsubscribe [email protected] Update Profile | Constant Contact Data Notice Sent by [email protected] powered by Try email marketing for free today!