Degree Date

4-2023

Document Type

Dissertation - Public Access

Degree Name

Ed.D. Doctor of Education

Academic Discipline

Curriculum, Advocacy, and Policy

First Advisor

Dr. Efrat Efron

Second Advisor

Dr. Terry Smith

Third Advisor

Dr. Vito Dipinto

Abstract

From what I have experienced, there has been a lack of preparation when it comes to preparing educators to work with students of color. This research aimed to explore the importance of early childhood teachers’ cultural preparation programs when it comes to working effectively with students of color. Most of the time, teachers teach to the common core standards set in place by the state. They also implement a curriculum that is considered “best practices” for students instead of paying attention to and considering the individual student’s specific culture, family, and community values and ways of life before planning (Spies, 2011). I conducted several interviews to complete a narrative qualitative study for each participant to tell their stories. From the data collected via the interviews, it was concluded that the participants did not feel they had the required tools needed to work with students of color once they became classroom teachers.

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