Preparation and Motivation of High School Students Who Want to Become Science or Mathematics Teachers

Expanding the Pipeline to Teach: Recruiting Future Urban Teachers of Color Through a Dual Enrollment Program

“…Pre-college students appeared to understand these concerns but conveyed that the desired qualities of teaching and their respect for the profession outweighed potential disadvantages associated with teaching. Listening to their families, yet making their own decisions is consistent with the literature which suggests that while familial influence is important it may not be the leading contributor which encourages students to partake on the path to becoming teachers (Christensen et al, 2019;Fuchs et al, 2022;Richardson et al, 2014).…”

“…This is consistent with literature which notes that having an educator in the family can lead to students developing interest and motivation for becoming a teacher (Christensen et al, 2019 ; Rutten & Badiali, 2020 ). Factors such as carrying on a family tradition were also noted as influential in shaping aspirations (Fuchs et al, 2022 ). Amira mentioned that she and her grandmother often discussed her grandmother’s experiences as a classroom teacher.…”

“…Elizabeth described feeling uncertain during the time of that conversation, yet open to leaning into their idea, noting “At the time, I was thinking, I'm not really sure. So maybe I should go for the education field.” The encouragement that Elizabeth’s family provided may have been an important influence on her that later contributed to her aspirations of becoming an educator (Christensen et al, 2019 ; Fuchs et al, 2022 ).…”

“…Community centers, libraries, and other institutions situated within urban centers should be targeted to cultivate the pipeline of talented young people who can become future educators. High achieving students of color have a myriad of choices when it comes their career trajectory and may need additional encouragement to see teaching as an option that will bring economic stability and professional joy (Fuchs et al, 2022 ; Rendon, 1994). Formalized interactions with educators in the field (e.g., classroom teachers, department leads, principals) overtime may help to expand students’ worldview when it comes to recognizing the possibilities associated with this career path.…”

“…The encouragement that Elizabeth's family provided may have been an important influence on her that later contributed to her aspirations of becoming an educator (Christensen et al, 2019;Fuchs et al, 2022).…”