In Pursuit of Greatness

Bold Strategies to Grow a Strong and Diverse Educator Workforce

Key Takeaways

  • Despite strong growth in the number of teachers of color hired in Massachusetts, student diversity has increased faster, leading to a larger gap in representation that will continue to grow if left unaddressed
  • Closing gaps in college access through Early College programs, adopting multiple approaches to licensure, and launching apprenticeship programs would strengthen pathways for teachers of color

Forecast & Simulation Model Excel Workbook

The increasing diversity of students in Massachusetts makes growing a diverse educator workforce a critical policy goal for the Commonwealth. In recent years, state and local leaders have responded to this challenge with a variety of programs and policy changes. This report details these efforts and their considerable impact to date. However, the findings show the racial and ethnic differences between the state’s students and teachers will continue to widen through the end of this decade, if Massachusetts remains on the current trajectory. Employing a projection model developed by researchers at the Wheelock Educational Policy Center, the analysis models several hypothetical scenarios to close the gap. The report concludes with policy recommendations to accelerate the pace of change.

Topic

Education