Tackling Education Challenges with Determined Young Men
A Unique Approach to Early Literacy
In a preschool classroom at Dorothy I. Heights Elementary in Baltimore, 19-year-old Davontez Johnson is leading a group of 4-year-olds in a chant and dance about phonics. This may not be what one would expect from a former high school senior, but Johnson is part of the Leading Men Fellowship, a program that trains young Black and Latino men to become early literacy instructors in preschool classrooms across the country.
Addressing Shortages and Stereotypes
The program aims to address several challenges at once, including a shortage of early educators, a lack of Black and Latino male teachers, and the challenges faced by boys of color in schools due to their race and gender.
Many fellows, like Johnson, are recruited straight out of high school. After an interview process and intensive summer training, they go to work in schools where they may be among the only male educators. Fellows make between $16.50 and $18 an hour.
Breaking Down Barriers
According to federal data, less than 1% of elementary and early education public school teachers are Black men. By providing training and mentorship, the Leading Men Fellowship hopes to increase diversity in the early education workforce and provide role models for young students.
The Power of Black Teachers
Researchers have shown that Black teachers can make a significant difference for Black students, particularly boys. In the years since the Leading Men Fellowship was founded, studies have repeatedly found that students of color seem to fare better when they have teachers who look like them.
A Case Study: The Leading Men Fellowship
The program has seen promising results. For example, a study by Johns Hopkins University economist Nicholas Papageorge found that Black teachers have higher expectations for Black students than do non-Black teachers. Another study found that Black students who have a Black teacher are less likely to drop out of high school and more likely to attend college – with the effect being most pronounced for Black boys from low-income households.
The Story of Davontez Johnson
Johnson’s experience is a testament to the program’s impact. He was drawn to the Leading Men Fellowship because he wanted to be a positive influence in a young student’s life. He has learned the intricacies of early education and uses music and movement to engage his students.
Conclusion
The Leading Men Fellowship is a unique approach to addressing the complex challenges faced by early education. By providing training and mentorship to young Black and Latino men, the program aims to increase diversity in the early education workforce and provide role models for young students. As educators like Davontez Johnson continue to make a difference in the lives of their students, the program’s impact will be felt for years to come.
FAQs
Q: What is the Leading Men Fellowship?
A: The Leading Men Fellowship is a program that trains young Black and Latino men to become early literacy instructors in preschool classrooms across the country.
Q: What is the purpose of the Leading Men Fellowship?
A: The program aims to address a shortage of early educators, a lack of diversity in the early education workforce, and the challenges faced by boys of color in schools.
Q: What is the typical background of a Lead Men Fellow?
A: Many fellows, like Davontez Johnson, are recruited straight out of high school and have typically not previously considered teaching as a career path.
Q: What is the typical salary of a Lead Men Fellow?
A: Fellows make between $16.50 and $18 an hour.
Q: What is the long-term impact of the Leading Men Fellowship?
A: The program hopes to increase diversity in the early education workforce and provide role models for young students, leading to improved outcomes for students of color and a more positive and inclusive early education system.
