Reflections on Recruiting,Supporting,Retaining,Graduating,and Obtaining Employment for Doctoral Students From Diverse Backgrounds

Abstract

In this article, the authors provide a summary of the current techniques being used to recruit, retain, and support a diverse range of scholars, including students with disabilities, in a doctoral program. The manuscript provides a summary of the current need for leadership personnel who are scholars with knowledge in special education, general education content, research, and advanced technologies, while staying true to the mission of our field to serve students with disabilities and their families. This article provides the current success of this doctoral program in preparing scholars for higher education, the techniques used to build and support a very diverse population of scholars, and case-based examples. In addition, lessons learned over a decade are provided to inform the field of special education about recruiting, retaining, preparing, and employing doctoral-level scholars in special education who are ready to enter the profession with a balance related to innovation and preparation of highly qualified teachers in our field.

Keywords

teacher leadership educational reform teacher preparation policy/service delivery mentoring retention

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