Be the
you are meant to be.
you are meant to be.
Our Programming Mission
We are on a mission to build a diverse, resilient, teaching workforce.
Across the state and country, school districts are grappling with a significant challenge—teacher shortages.
Our education system is in dire need of more educators, particularly those from linguistically, racially, and ethnically diverse backgrounds.
Current Landscape
The Current Landscape in Rhode Island
Teacher Diversity in RI
Approximately 8% of educators in Rhode Island identified as Black, Latinx/a/o/e, Asian, Native, Pacific Islander, or multiracial while over 40% of public school students identify similarly.
Source: EdTrust. (2023, February). Teacher Diversity & Equity Policy Scan, EdTrust
Certification Exam Preparation & Support
Rhode Island is one of only 15 states that requires test-based admission for entry into teacher preparation programs.
In Rhode Island, only 43% of test takers pass the elementary licensure test (Praxis) on their first attempt. Excluding Brown University, less than one-third of test takers of color pass on their first attempt.
Source: Bellwether. (2022, December). Strengthening the Teacher Workforce in Rhode Island, Rhode Island Foundation
One-to-One Advising
The teacher retention rate in Rhode Island has experienced a decline, falling from 85% to 82% between 2016 and 2022. We believe in the transformative power of community. Research shows that ongoing mentoring and support can significantly boost completion rates for teacher certification programs among aspiring educators from historically underrepresented backgrounds. In fact, studies indicate that 92% of first-year classroom educators continue teaching when paired with a mentor.
Sources: Rhode Island Current. (2023, May) Panelists say retention and recruitment of teachers of color remains a challenge., U.S. Department of Education (2015, April). Public School Teacher Attrition and Mobility in the First Five Years.
Financial Support
Rhode Island is one of only four states that does not offer any financial incentives (loan forgiveness, scholarships, or bonuses) to help recruit and retain teachers of color, teachers in shortage areas, or teachers willing to work in underserved schools.
Source: Bellwether. (2022, December). Strengthening the Teacher Workforce in Rhode Island, Rhode Island Foundation.
Tailored Supports
Our Pathway Program Model
We understand that every school district has its unique challenges and needs.
That's why we don't believe in a one-size-fits-all approach.
We believe the solution to the lack of teacher diversity and teacher shortages, is custom educator pathway programs that are community centered and focused.
One-to-One Advising
Benefit from ongoing one-to-one support from Equity Institute staff to navigate your certification program.
Licensure Exam Support
Receive exam preparation support designed to help you progress toward becoming a certified teacher.
Financial Assistance
Receive financial assistance to help cover tuition and living expenses.
Our Team
Meet Our Team of Dedicated Education Professionals
Former Classroom Teachers Now Working to Support Aspiring Educators
Meet Arryana, our Director of Pathway Programs at Equity Institute, who plays a pivotal role in supporting educators within our program. Arryana’s deep-rooted passion for education and equity stems from her previous experience as a teacher in the Bronx. She began her journey with us as an analyst while earning her master's degree in Urban Education Policy at Brown University. Arryana’s dedication and expertise quickly led to her promotion from Program Coordinator to Director within two years. Her leadership is vital in crafting impactful pathways for educators, and we invite you to watch and listen as she shares more about our work and her experiences.
Carlon is the visionary driving force behind all teacher diversity programming at the Equity Institute. With his experience as a former classroom math teacher, Carlon brings firsthand insight into the challenges faced by educators today, particularly in underrepresented communities. His understanding and dedication are instrumental in our mission to recruit and retain teachers from racially, ethnically, and linguistically diverse backgrounds. We invite you to watch a brief video to learn more about Carlon's background, his passion for this vital work, and how his efforts are shaping a more inclusive future in education.
KC is an inspiring member of our team whose powerful story resonates with our mission. Once a participant in our program, KC graduated and now dedicates herself to supporting teacher assistants and paraprofessionals on their journeys to become certified classroom teachers. Her first-hand experience drives her passion for this work, and she offers invaluable guidance and mentorship to our program participants. We invite you to listen and watch as KC shares her insights and experiences, highlighting the importance of diversity and representation in the classroom.
Our Program Graduates
Our Teachers, Our Mirrors: Stories From the Field
Hear directly from our program graduates
Osiris Grafals
Lead Rhode Island Pre-K Teacher
Angel Soares
4th Grade ESL Teacher
Veronica Machado
Special Education Policy Advocate & Pathway Navigator
Educator Pathway Collective
Unlock the Future of Educator Support: Your Personalized Journey Awaits
In today's fast-paced educational landscape, supporting educators on their path to certification is more crucial than ever. Imagine a world where every educator in your district has access to tailored resources and vibrant communities that foster their growth and development. Welcome to our digital portal, carefully designed as a central hub that streamlines access to all the tools and resources educators need to become classroom teachers.
Why Choose Our Educator Pathway Collective Digital Platform?
This online platform offers a spectrum of benefits that go beyond mere certification support.
Custom Tailored to Your Needs
Your vision, our expertise. Our team is committed to identifying your unique programmatic needs and designing a customized space that reflects your goals and aspirations. Every element of your portal is meticulously crafted to create an aesthetically pleasing and functional environment that supports your educators' certification paths.
Tailored Pathway Coaching
Our expert team will work closely with you to understand your unique programmatic needs, delivering a customized space that's perfectly suited to your goals and participants.
Exam Preparation
Access an entire suite of resources that simplifies the certification process, ensuring educators remain focused and motivated throughout their journeys.
Real-Time Progress Tracking
Stay on top of your program's success with state-of-the-art tools that track participant progress and engagement. Our metrics provide valuable insights into the community of educators, helping you make informed decisions that align with your district's goals.
Community Spaces
Build collaboration and community among educators with our interactive spaces. Share insights, exchange ideas, and support each other on the path to becoming a classroom teacher.
Live Events
Stay engaged and inspired with live events, workshops, and ongoing certification support that keep your educators motivated and on track.
Partnership Process
Your Next Steps Are Simple
1
Contact Us
Reach out and schedule an exploratory meeting with our team.
2
Explore
During the meeting, we’ll learn about your specific needs and discuss how our service model can support your goals.
3
Decide
Together, we'll determine the best path forward to enhance diversity among your teaching staff.
Join us in rewriting the future of education—one teacher at a time.
Make a move in the right direction by committing to recruit a more diverse group of teachers. Let's work together to build a brighter future for students and communities.