NEW YORK, New York – Teach for America (TFA) is deeply committed to solving educational inequity. Research findings support TFA’s belief that all students are capable of achievement when they are provided with quality education, regardless of their community’s income. TFA advocates for children by providing an education that will, ultimately, give them an advantage in being successful members of society.
In order to achieve the overarching TFA goal of providing education to students of even the lowest-income communities, it takes empathic, dynamic, influential leaders to teach and support children in their educational journeys. Teach for America corps members will gain significant experience teaching and building meaningful relationships with students, families, communities, and other corps members.
TFA provides intensive training, support, and career development assistance to teachers along to way to ensure every teacher is well equipped for their job. Because TFA teachers will be immersed in high-need classrooms, the hiring process for corps members is highly selective. TFA looks for demonstrated leadership ability, strong academic, professional, extracurricular and/or volunteer achievement, and strong critical thinking and organizational skills. Candidates need to have the ability to believe a child can succeed, and be respectful toward the program, students, and communities.
All candidates must have a bachelor’s degree by the time of the summer institute, a minimum 2.5 grade-point-average, and U.S. citizenship or national/permanent resident status. Corps members receive full salary and comprehensive benefits. Salaries range from $25,500 to $51,000 depending on the area. Teach for America has members all across the nation. Currently, high priority regions include Memphis and Mississippi. Additionally, graduate school and business partnerships are available, providing financial assistance and deferral processes.
Teach for America is an advocate for the importance of diversity. It understands each corps member holds a different background and life experience. In promoting diversity among TFA leaders, the experience of learning is enhanced. TFA Colorado Corps member of 2010, Scott Jelinek explains, “Within the corps there is a community of acceptance and celebration of our unique perspectives.”
In an environment that emphasizes learning, encouragement, diversity, and ultimately promotion of success, Teach for America is an organization enhancing the lives of students living in underprivileged communities, ultimately leading toward future success for themselves, their families, and their communities.
To apply, visit teachforamerica.org.
– Laura Reinacher
Sources: Teach for America: Who We Look For, Teach for America: Join Our Staff, Huffington Post
Photo: Wikia