This policy brief by the Education Commission of the States provides a literature review on the benefits of expanding racial and ethnic diversity among K–12 teachers and features examples of state-level incentives intended to advance teacher diversity. While teachers of all races and ethnicities can inspire students, research suggests that the more diverse the teacher workforce becomes, and the more students of color see themselves reflected in their teachers, the more students could improve academically, behaviorally, socially, and emotionally. Incentives covered on how to increase teacher workforce diversity include examining state context, providing fiscal incentives, developing Grow Your Own programs, and expanding pathways to becoming an educator. Additionally, ways to improve retention of teachers of color are explored. This policy brief could be helpful for state legislators, policymakers, and teacher and leader preparation faculty looking to bring more people of color into the teaching profession.