Transforming Public Schools: A Synthesis of Research Findings from UCLA'S Center X

This article describes how one university-based center, UCLA's Center X, has worked to prepare and sustain urban educators over the past 16 years. Synthesizing findings from more than 20 articles, papers, books, and dissertations that report on Center X's work, we argue that three key activities are necessary to spur change and ensure a high-quality, stable workforce: (1) Firmly embed teacher learning and development in the context of urban schools and communities; (2) Recruit and prepare a diverse local workforce of social justice educators for urban schools; and (3) Support the continual learning and career development of educators working to make a difference. The article concludes with implications for other university-based teacher learning centers seeking to recruit, prepare, and sustain powerful educators in the schools that need them most.