Transforming Public Schools: A Synthesis of Research Findings from UCLA'S Center X

Abstract

This article describes how one university-based center, UCLA's Center X, has worked to prepare and sustain urban educators over the past 16 years. Synthesizing findings from more than 20 articles, papers, books, and dissertations that report on Center X's work, we argue that three key activities are necessary to spur change and ensure a high-quality, stable workforce: (1) Firmly embed teacher learning and development in the context of urban schools and communities; (2) Recruit and prepare a diverse local workforce of social justice educators for urban schools; and (3) Support the continual learning and career development of educators working to make a difference. The article concludes with implications for other university-based teacher learning centers seeking to recruit, prepare, and sustain powerful educators in the schools that need them most.

Karen Hunter Quartz is the Director of Research and Communications at UCLA's Center X, and Director of Research and Development at the UCLA Community School, a K-12 public school in Local District 4 of the Los Angeles Unified School District. Her interests and scholarship focus on the career development and retention of urban educators, the use of research to improve practice, and the creation of small democratic schools.

Jody Priselac is the Executive Director of UCLA's Center X and an adjunct professor in the Department of Education. She has 30 years of experience as a mathematics educator, serving in many roles, including high school teacher, professional development leader, teacher educator, and educational researcher.

Megan Franke is the Chair of the Education Department and professor in the Urban Schooling division at UCLA's Graduate School of Education and Information Studies. Her work focuses on understanding and supporting teacher learning through professional development, particularly within elementary mathematics.

Notes

1. For further information about this statistic, please contact the lead author directly.

2. For more information about this school, see: http://uclacommunityschool.gseis.ucla.edu