teach for america

Today I had my interview with Teach For America. I think it went really well. And I'm hopeful I'll get a position...

For those unaware of Teach For America, it was founded in 1990 by Wendy Kopp. The goal: reduce the achievement gap. Children growing up in wealthier homes attend wealthier schools which usually employ better teachers. This widens the gap even further, making the rich richer and the poor poorer. The organization has since grown and there are around forty regions where they have a presence. Their demand is growing each year and they will be looking to place (it's a conduit organization working with the local schools themselves) over 8,000 teachers. The demand to be involved is also growing as they only hire on average 12% of applicants. I've made it to the final round, but I'm up against some pretty amazing people too. Still, I remain confident.

Whether they offer me a position or not, it's reinforced in me the notion of the importance of quality education, working to truly reduce the achievement gap. I'll take this with me wherever I go.

We as a nation need to be very committed to ending the achievement gap. This is only possible with increased parent involvement, community outreach, volunteering, quality instruction, etc. Teach For America is proving each day that this is possible. Lets expand their efforts.

Oh, and you should visit their website... it's pretty awesome...
Teach For America