PDS Educators of Color Network
UNCW Watson College of Education School-University Partnership
Diversity is a central component of success for students, educators, and schools. Belonging to and engaging with a diverse community of educators, school leaders and students leads to more positive outcomes for all learners. According to a 2018 report from the Learning Policy Institute, “Research shows that teachers of color help close achievement gaps for students of color and are highly rated by students of all races.” Diversity in the teacher workforce contributes to an increase in student performance, graduation rates, and aspirations to attend college. These benefits extend to White students who report feeling cared for and academically challenged by teachers.
The UNCW Watson College of Education Professional Development System (PDS) Educators of Color Network values diversity, mutually beneficial relationships, leadership, and intentional support. We recognize the need to situate this work in networks of educators who represent diverse communities.
Educators of Color is a collaborative network of current and retired P-12 teachers and school leaders, university faculty and students who, together, envision and facilitate activities to recruit students of color into the teaching profession, retain current educators of color, and engage school partners in advocacy efforts to establish a broader, more diverse network of professionals. This vision will be enacted through three phases.
PHASE ONE: Launch the EOC Network in January 2022 through the recruitment of current and retired P-12 educators and school leaders, university faculty and students, to participate in network meetings, events, and working groups focused on the core goals of connection, recruitment, retention and advocacy.
PHASE TWO: Identify, design, and implement practices and strategies in each of these broad categories that are sustainable, easily replicated, and well-resourced in our PDS partnership.
PHASE THREE: Engage and support members interested in designing and implementing localized groups connected to the mission and vision of the broader EOC Network.
