The Murphy Administration has announced grants that encourage teacher diversity. Through New Jersey Department of Education’s (NJDOE) $750,000 “Diversifying the Teacher Pipeline” grants, Montclair State University and Rutgers University will increase recruitment and training opportunities for teachers of color in high-needs school districts. Montclair State University has partnered with Newark Public Schools and Rutgers University’s Center for Effective School Practices has partnered with a consortium of Passaic County charter schools. According to NJDOE data, 50 percent of the state’s almost 1.4 million students are children of color while only 16 percent of New Jersey’s teachers are of color.
“Research tells us that a diverse teaching workforce benefits all students,” said Education Commissioner Lamont O. Repollet. “Teachers of color foster positive perceptions among children, which helps prepare them for success in a diverse society.”
Due to the grant projects high school students will be more open to pursuing teaching as a profession through opportunities to earn college credits while still in high school, assistance with college entrance exams, mentoring and creative pathways designed for their needs. Once successful the projects have the potential to serve as a model for New Jersey and the nation.
“It’s our obligation to open doors that encourage diversity among New Jersey educators,” said Commissioner Repollet, noting that studies have found that students of color taught by at least one teacher of color in grades K-5 have increased graduation rates and improved standardized test scores. “We owe it not only to aspiring teachers, but to the children we serve,” he added.
These grants are part NJDOE’s overall commitment to diversify the education workforce.
Read more at https://www.state.nj.us/education/news/2019/0119act.htm
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