Date of Award
1-1-2025
Document Type
Dissertation
Degree Name
Ph.D. in Education
First Advisor
Ann Monroe
Second Advisor
Erica Avent
Third Advisor
Ty McNamee
School
University of Mississippi
Relational Format
dissertation/thesis
Abstract
The American education system has struggled with a significant teacher shortage for years. Alongside this shortage is the underrepresentation of African American male teachers. Despite the increasing diversity of the student population, African American men make up less than 2% of teachers nationwide (Aftunion, 2020). This disparity denies all kids access to diverse perspectives in the classroom and limits the presence of role models for students of color. Research studies have shown that African American students who have African American teachers show improvement in their grades, standardized test scores, attendance records, and graduation rates (Breazeale, 2023). This study aimed to investigate the underrepresentation of African American men in the teaching profession, to identify the factors that draw them to this field, the challenges they encounter during their teaching journey, and their impact on their students' lives and educational experiences. Factors contributing to this underrepresentation include financial burdens, low salaries, and a lack of support, which all deter African American men from entering or remaining in the teaching profession. Addressing these challenges is critical for developing an inclusive and representative educational environment that benefits all learners.
Recommended Citation
Johnson, Nisa Lewis, "The Underrepresentation of African American Male Educators in K-12 Education" (2025). Electronic Theses and Dissertations. 3302.
https://egrove.olemiss.edu/etd/3302