Dive Brief:

• A new study by the National Education Association finds only 18% of public school teachers in the United States are nonwhite.  
• This low number is contrasted with the rising number of nonwhite students enrolled nationally in public schools.  The Center for American Progress shows the number currently at 48%.
• The discrepancy between the two numbers raises concerns that our schools lack diverse mentors, leaving children of color without role models that look like them.  

Dive Insight:

Diversity in classroom teachers means students of color can more easily identify with their teachers and see examples of success that look like them. This is important when trying to determine what is possible in your future, and creating a sense of optimism. Additionally, however, studies show students are also more academically inclined when they have teachers of the same race as them. A 2006 study out of Northwestern University indicates an achievement gap is more likely when students are taught by teachers who don't look like them.  

As Kevin Gilbert of the NEA's executive committee said, “Nothing can help motivate our students more than to see success standing right in front of them.” 

Recommended Reading:

TIME: Study: Less Than 1 in 5 Public-School Teachers Are Nonwhite