Diversifying the Teaching Workforce through K-12 Work-Based Learning Experiences

Elementary and secondary district leaders seeking to recruit teachers and diversify their teaching workforce will find useful, research-based strategies in this brief from the Region 4 Comprehensive Center. The brief focuses on ways to develop work-based learning programs in secondary schools that engage students in considering teacher careers. Drawing on insights from 14 programs, this brief summarizes five useful strategies of teacher-focused work-based learning programs, including targeted courses, cohort model and peer supports, strategic counseling, dual enrollment, and field experiences. It also provides helpful background into the historic challenges around recruiting and retaining teachers of color.