Publication Date
Spring 2025
Degree Type
Dissertation
Degree Name
Doctor of Education (EdD)
Department
Education
Advisor
Ellen Middaugh; Imee Almazan; Rebeca Burciaga
Abstract
An unprecedented number of BIPOC teachers exited the profession since June 2020 largely due to the challenges posted by the COVID-19 pandemic (Doan et al., 2024). This study aimed to investigate ways these educators coped with the heavy toll of the converging pandemic(s) by asking what, if anything, sustained them? Participants provided individual and group testimonios and shared snapshots of what it was like to teach and exist during this time via the photovoice methodology and reflected on the challenges and sources of support. BIPOC teachers described the following challenges: difficulty connecting with kids, first-hand and vicarious trauma, increased workload, being asked to lead discussions around race with little resources, and having to compartmentalize trauma. They also described sources of resilience such as having someone who understands the struggle, support from administrators, mentorship, boundaries, and family. As we continue to encounter crises due to climate change and ongoing racial tension in our polarized society, BIPOC teachers and students will continue to be disproportionately impacted. Recommendations for creating race-conscious environments include; creating formal and informal structures for affinity groups, addressing racist language directly, implementing systems for feedback, and providing sufficient and timely instructional resources.
Recommended Citation
Galicia Castrejon, Jannet, "Resilience in Crisis: How BIPOC Educators Navigated the Challenges Associated with COVID-19, Racial Awakening, and the Move to Online Learning" (2025). Dissertations. 123.
DOI: https://doi.org/10.31979/etd.a3qf-aqux
https://scholarworks.sjsu.edu/etd_dissertations/123
