The InSPIRED Initiative

Our Vision: All children will have the opportunity to see their ethnic, linguistic, and racial backgrounds represented in teachers and leaders within their classrooms and schools. All educators, especially Black, Indigenous, and Educators of Color, will be recognized, supported within, and celebrated by their schools and districts for their value and positive impact on PK–12 students.

Why It Matters: Massachusetts students are increasingly diverse, but our educators are not. Research shows that a diverse teacher workforce matters. Teachers of color boost the academic performance of students of color, including improved reading and math test scores, improved graduation rates, and increases in aspirations to attend college

The InSPIRED Initiative connects current educators with DESE to help cultivate, support, and retain a culturally responsive and diverse educator workforce in MA schools. The Initiative promotes education as a meaningful, rewarding career pathway and elevates the voices and brilliance of educators of color. The Initiative consists of two communities:

• Statewide Affinity Network, which aims to create a safe space for educators of color to network, engage in dialogue about their authentic experiences, and explore professional development opportunities and/or action that makes for a more equitable experience in their schools.
• InSPIRED Fellowship, which is a selective opportunity for current educators who leverage their backgrounds and personal connections to communicate stories and calls to action to current and prospective educational leaders, helping them understand the impact of BIPOC on PK–12 students.

To learn more about the Statewide Affinity Network and/or the InSPIRED Fellowship, please complete this interest form to be notified of upcoming opportunities to get involved.