Teaira McMurtry

Teaira McMurtry is an Assistant Professor in the Department of Curriculum Instruction at the University of Alabama at Birmingham's School of Education. Her research focuses on Black Language studies, linguistic justice, and culturally relevant pedagogy. She holds a PhD in English Language and Literature from Cardinal Stritch University (2018), an MA in Teaching from Alverno College (2011), and a BA in English from University of Wisconsin-Parkside (2007).

Her work emphasizes anti-racist language pedagogy and centering Black linguistic heritage in educational curricula. She has published extensively on topics including Black language preservation, teacher professional development, and equity in literacy education. McMurtry teaches courses such as Critical Pedagogy for Diverse Populations and Methods for Secondary Language Arts, and mentors graduate students through dissertation committees.

Her research trends highlight transformative approaches to ELA curricula, leveraging Black-centric texts and 90s sitcoms as pedagogical tools. She advocates for systemic changes in teacher preparation programs to address anti-Black linguistic racism and promote linguistic justice.