Building a Diverse Staff to Improve Equity and Student Outcomes

Delve into the ongoing conversation about the pivotal role that a diverse educator workforce plays in building greater equity that directly impacts students’ success.

As schools and districts seek solutions for improving academic achievement for all students—and especially for students who are Black, Hispanic, English learners, or who have disabilities—one key strategy is to recruit and retain a K-12 workforce that reflects the diverse backgrounds and experiences of the student population. A growing body of research points to academic, behavioral, and social benefits for all students when they are taught by a diverse array of teachers. This is especially the case for Black students, who, for example, are 13 percent more likely to enroll in college if they’ve had one Black teacher by the 3rd grade, while those who had two Black teachers were 32 percent more likely to enroll in college.

EdWeek journalists and expert guests will discuss strategies and tactics that districts and schools can use to build greater equity in schools by prioritizing a diverse K-12 staff, providing practical ideas for expanding candidate pools to address equity issues that are unique to their communities, and learning how this strategy will ultimately create more equitable outcomes for all students, and especially those who need the most support.

First time K-12 Essentials Forum attendee? Learn more about our free virtual forums.