The phrase “someone who looks like us” goes far beyond looks. It signals better reading and math scores, reduced suspension rates and increased academic ambition when teachers in public schools reflect the diversity of the student population. In Buffalo Public Schools, where – as The News’ Ben Tsujimoto reports – an 83% minority student population is taught by 84% white teachers, that reflection is starkly absent.

Rather than arguing about where to place blame for this situation, the district would do better to include all the players – administration, board, teachers, union leaders and other educational partners – in a collaborative effort to make change happen. Action from New York State is also necessary.

UB's Urban Teacher Residency in peril after two federal grants cut

UB's Urban

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