Terrenda C. White

Terrenda C. White is an Associate Professor of Sociology and Education at the University of Colorado Boulder, specializing in educational policy and urban education. She holds a PhD in Sociology and Education from Teachers College, Columbia University (2014), an MS in Elementary Education from Loyola Marymount University, and a BS in Human Development and Psychological Services from Northwestern University.

Her research focuses on market-based education reforms, particularly charter school dynamics, teacher autonomy, and equity in underserved communities. She examines ideological distinctions between community-based and privately managed charter schools, emphasizing privatization, power structures, and culturally responsive teaching practices. Recent work explores teacher identity and equity ideologies within alternative teacher preparation programs.

Dr. White has been recognized with prestigious fellowships, including the National Academy of Education/Spencer Dissertation Fellowship and AERA’s Minority Dissertation Fellowship. Her work has been featured in outlets like the American Prospect and LA Times. She previously served as an elementary school teacher and coordinator for the NYC Prison Education Initiative.