APS
2026 APS Annual Convention · 2026
When Expectations Outpace Development: U.S. Ethnic Studies Teachers’ Racial Identities and Preparedness to Support Adolescent Identity Development
- Mel Eligon
California State University, Sacramento - Alicia Herrera
California State University, Sacramento - Patrick Pieng
California State University, Sacramento
Abstract
Ethnic Studies classrooms in California, USA, function as developmental contexts for racial identity. Interviews with four high school teachers showed variation in identity awareness and preparedness to support identity development. Policy demands exceeded teacher readiness, creating uneven developmental opportunities. Findings underscore the need to support teachers for identity-focused curriculum.
