TEACH FOR AMERICA Meaning and
Definition
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Teach For America (TFA) is a non-profit organization in the United States that aims to address educational inequalities by recruiting and placing college graduates as teachers in underprivileged public schools. Founded in 1989 by Wendy Kopp, it has since become one of the largest providers of teachers for low-income communities across the country.
TFA seeks to address the educational achievement gap by selecting and training talented individuals from various academic backgrounds who have a deep commitment to educational equity. These individuals, known as corps members, undergo an intensive 5-week training program before being placed in high-need schools, where they commit to teaching for a minimum of two years. The organization focuses on recruiting graduates from highly selective universities and colleges, fostering leadership skills, and providing ongoing support to its corps members throughout their teaching experience.
The mission of Teach For America is to marshal the energy and potential of young leaders to make a significant impact on educational outcomes in low-income communities. By placing diverse and highly motivated individuals in schools where educational resources are scarce, TFA aims to provide students with access to quality education and inspire future leaders who will champion educational equity in the long run.
Critics of Teach For America suggest that the organization's model of placing inexperienced teachers in challenging classrooms may have mixed results. However, supporters argue that while the program may not be a comprehensive solution to educational inequality, it serves as a catalyst for reform and raises awareness about the disparities in the American education system.
