Community of Practice Provides BIPOC Educators a Virtual Space for Connection and Support

Navigating school spaces as an educator of color comes with unique challenges and experiences that can be difficult to manage, and addressing issues in the workplace can feel isolating. The San Diego County Office of Education’s (SDCOE) Educator Pathways Community of Practice affinity group aims to give these educators a unique professional setting to meet, speak freely about the challenges they face, and reassure each other they are not alone.

Launched in the spring of 2022 to help recruitment and retention efforts within the education sector, the Educator Pathways Community of Practice affinity group is a resource for Black, Indigenous, and people of color (BIPOC) educators from around the state. The group has participants of various backgrounds and stages in their careers, and meets monthly to create a virtual discussion space to connect with each other, share experiences, and provide inspiration and mutual support.

Over the years, the group has become a dedicated forum for open dialogue to help empower educators of color as they continue to make a meaningful impact in their schools and communities.

“We’ve seen a number of issues around why BIPOC educators don’t stay in the field,” said Adina Sullivan-Marlow teacher effectiveness coordinator for SDCOE. “It’s important to not feel alone, and our meetings are designed to be the right resource for the people who need it. You are welcome in this space, and you belong here.”

With participants from widely different backgrounds, meetings offer the unique opportunity to be a safe soundboard for educators who are looking to process interactions or experiences they’ve encountered. Longtime participant Elliott Powell, a history teacher at San Marcos Middle School and retired U.S. Navy captain, finds immense value in being able to speak freely among others who have similar experiences.

“It’s nice to sit down and chat with folks who understand what you’re going through,” Powell said. “This group provides a platform to reflect and get others’ perspective. Coming from a military background, I’ve had to learn how to adapt my skillset to my new environment, and this group has been really helpful. I’m also able to share things I’ve learned during my time in the military to help others in the group.”

The Educator Pathways Community of Practice also aims to give BIPOC educators the support and tools they need to help move the needle in their own schools and create a more inclusive environment for both staff and students.

“We are models, not just for our students but for our fellow teachers and school administrators too,” Powell said. “You can either be part of the problem, or part of the solution. This group will help you be part of the solution. It’ll give you the tools to be strategic and really bring equity to our environment, to our colleagues, and to our students.”

The affinity group meets monthly via Zoom and addresses a variety of topics, with self-care and social and emotional wellness being popular recurring themes. Each meeting is led by a facilitator and often features guests who provide insight on the featured topic. A mental health professional is also available at each meeting to provide additional support for attendees who may experience strong emotional reactions.

To learn more about the group, contact educatorpathways@sdcoe.net or fill out the group’s interest list form.