Why Are Black Teachers Leaving? Unpacking Attrition, Retention, and Hope in Allegheny County

Why are Black teachers leaving the classroom—and what can be done to keep them? In this audio documentary, hosts Samuel Reed and Kevin Burgess dive deep into Research for Action’s groundbreaking study on Black teacher attrition in Allegheny County, Pennsylvania. With only 3.5% of teachers identifying as Black—despite 21% of students being Black—the gap is glaring, and the stakes are high.

Listen as current and former Black educators share their stories and expertise, revealing the unique challenges they face: from racial microaggressions and invisible labor to systemic barriers and lack of support. Discover why Black teachers are essential—not just for representation, but for the transformative relationships and culturally relevant pedagogy they bring to schools.

You’ll hear firsthand accounts from educators like Camille, a principal whose holistic, humanizing approach to discipline and student relationships is reshaping what’s possible in education. The episode also explores practical solutions: mentorship programs, affinity groups, and community engagement that can help recruit, retain, and sustain Black teachers.

Whether you’re an educator, policymaker, parent, or advocate, this episode will challenge your assumptions and inspire action toward educational equity. Tune in for a nuanced, honest, and hopeful conversation about the future of teaching—and why supporting Black teachers is critical for all students.