teach+for+america

Teach for America proves to be successful

Started in 1990, Teach for America has been sending graduates from elite colleges to schools in need, be it inner-city or rural.  It has drawn some criticism for sending inexperienced people into schools as teachers, but a 5 year study in North Carolina shows that Teach for America teachers are yielding strong results, particularly in math and science.

Some critics of TFA say it contributes to the inexperience and turnover at high-needs schools, since it only asks for a two-year commitment. But TFA officials say their teachers come back after the first year at a higher rate than other new teachers in high-poverty schools (91 percent versus 83 percent). Two-thirds of alumni are studying or working in the education field, even if not in the classroom, Ms. Rabinowitz says.

Part of Teach for America’s success is due to its selectivity- they have the ability to pick the best of the best.  Last year only 21% of applicants got a position.  After seeing seniors walking around in suits earlier this week for TFA final interviews I can understand their nervousness.  Good luck to all!

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