In celebration of Black History Month, we are acknowledging and uplifting Black teacher residents who are part of NCTR Network teacher residency programs, eager to begin teaching a class of students as a teacher of record and make a difference in their communities.
Meet Ebi Onwe, Black Educators Initiative at Clarkson University
Why did you decide to take part in the teacher residency program?
I decided to take part in the teacher residency program for the mentorship opportunity that it provides. To be able to be paired with a tenured teacher in the field is extremely important to me because of the wealth of knowledge and experience that the mentor brings. The residence is truly a wrap-around support system that provides the foundation necessary for me as a future Black educator.
How has being part of the program contributed to your life?
This program brings tremendous value to my life because it recognizes the importance of Black teachers in education; something that we haven’t really seen as it relates to equity in hiring. This initiative to push for more Black educators in the field also creates a network of current and future Black educators that can lean on each other for support throughout our careers.
What does being a Black teacher mean to you?
Being a Black teacher to me solidifies the notion that there is value in cultural diversity. It shows the importance of representation for all of our students. It demonstrates endless possibilities for our students to be able to view the world multidimensionally. There is a sense of pride knowing that our future Black leaders of tomorrow can look up and say, “She looks like me!” coupled with the joy of looking back and seeing my younger self. It is so important for communities of color to be able to see teachers & educators that look like them and they feel they can relate or understand them.
How do you think schools and districts can best support you as a Black teacher?
Schools and districts can help support Black teachers by providing a space that is welcoming for Black teachers — a sense of community — by being open to diversity and equity in hiring. It is important for Black teachers to feel like they aren’t the only ones in a building or district; looking around and seeing other Black teachers is so important for morale.
What are you looking forward to most upon completion?
To know that I will be valued as the effective teacher I am. To find permanent employment in a district that finds value in hiring a Black teacher that brings knowledge, professionalism, experience, and diversity to the classroom.
Photo courtesy of the Black Educators Initiative at Clarkson University
Posted February 27, 2023