Why Historically Black Colleges and Universities (HBCUs) Remain Vital to Teacher Development

Abstract

Historically Black Colleges and Universities (HBCUs) have long-standing legacies of recruiting, retaining, and preparing teachers for P-12 schools. More specifically, these institutions are particularly adept at attracting and developing individuals of color to become teachers. As the United States grapples with pervasive teacher shortages, a shrinking teacher workforce, and a student population that is growing in diversity, it is imperative that institutions of higher learning leverage their strengths to prepare and support the next generation of teachers. This article places HBCUs in the spotlight, highlighting their unique contributions to teacher preparation, while calling for action on how these institutions should be better supported to continue their missions of preparing teachers for the future. This article underscores the critical role of HBCUs in teacher education and in helping develop a more diverse U.S. teacher workforce.