Why Is This Project Critical

Pathways for Teacher Diversity is based upon research on what makes effective teachers.

Empirical studies show:

  • Teachers of color serve as role models for all students and counter negative stereotypes.
  • Teachers of color diversify the workplace, providing all teachers with more intercultural experiences and strengthening human resources.
  • Teachers of color act as role models for students of color to consider teaching as a career path.
  • Teachers of color have a more profound impact on the achievement and retention of students of color due to culturally-based practices, higher expectations, and roles as cultural mediators and advocates.

Source: Center for American Progress (2011). Teacher Diversity Matters: A State-by-State Analysis of Teachers of Colors (PDF)