We Need to Support Teachers of Color

Teachers of color in California and their students know how important it is to have diversity in the classroom. Students of color are more likely to succeed when they have a role model in the classroom that looks like them. Unfortunately, according to a 2022 survey, Black and Latino educators were likely to quit the profession earlier than expected due to lack of career support and poor working conditions.

Teachers of color need more state funding and school district support to address burnout and low pay. Teachers should be able to live in the communities they work in. A UCLA study found that about 80% of teachers said it was difficult to find affordable housing near their school site. As a state, we need to use our power to fix a school system that marginalizes both teachers and students of color.

Mark Boster for Los Angeles Times

California’s shortage of diverse teachers is hurting students, educators say

By Vanessa Arredono, The LA Times | 4/16/2022