Increasing the diversity of the student body is a goal at both the institutional and unit level. The Fall 2013 institutional “Quick Reference” report indicates that 20% of students enrolled at St. Cloud State University are students of color, and 52% are female (Exhibit 4.4.e.5). There are nearly 1,000 international students on our campus, adding to the richness of the experiences we can offer our candidates (Exhibit 4.4.e.2). Despite overall declines in enrollment, the current enrollment of students of color in teacher preparation programs is 11% at the undergraduate level and 20.5% at the graduate level (Exhibits 4.4.e.1; 4.4.e.3).
Through TPI, a team was created with the specific charge of making recommendations for the recruitment of diverse candidates, including teachers of color and men in the early years. The resulting report and recommendations outline current outreach efforts and strategies for improving our recruiting efforts as a unit and an institution (Exhibit 4.4.h.1).
Teacher candidates are encouraged to participate in a variety of opportunities on and off campus to develop intercultural competence in order to better serve P-12 students. Our candidates have many opportunities to study abroad, student teach in out-of-state and international settings and collaborate locally with international students (Exhibit 4.4.j.11).