“Teach for America has helped solidify that there are numerous other pathways to becoming an educator. Every step I take there is someone that I can turn to for support.”
-Tayler Cole
What is Teach For America?
Teach for America is a nonprofit working to eliminate the educational partisanship plaguing our country by mentoring leaders and growing them into educational change-makers. Teach for America believes every child deserves to achieve, regardless of circumstance. To advance this objective, new corps members are given opportunities to teach up to two years in local, under-resourced public schools where they can help students to succeed.
In 2006, TFA established a branch in Memphis TN. Fueled by the mission of Martin Luther King Jr, Teach for America Memphis is combating academic inequality by recruiting talented educators and introducing them to a professional environment where they can develop skills for change in a city of great potential. In the past month alone, TFA Memphis has gained 35 new educators, all eager to foster an even playing-field for Memphis schools. Over the next few weeks, CL is delighted to introduce some of these bright new recruits and allow a little insight into their individual aspirations.
Say Hello to Tayler
Tayler grew up in Memphis and attended U of M right in the city! She accredits her mother as her inspiration to become an educator, noting her many fond memories assisting her mother in the classroom, whether grading papers, making projects, or just organizing. Seeing her mother make a difference in the lives of other children not only drove her to follow in those footsteps, but join TFA. Tayler witnessed educational inequality firsthand growing up and wants to make Memphis into a community where all have access to the same opportunities no matter where they’re coming from.
Why did you choose to join Teach For America?
“I joined Teach For America because I believe every child deserves an equitable education and a learning environment that nurtures their whole self: academically, emotionally, and socially. I want to be part of a movement that reimagines what’s possible for all students.”
Why did you choose to come to Memphis specifically?
“I was born and raised in Memphis. I was able to witness the gaps in education amongst my peers in real time. As a child, I knew that other students fell behind for many reasons. I would like to give back to a community where the children are still facing the same issues that hinder their education.”
How do you think this program will support your long-term career goals—whether in education or beyond?
“I would love to stay in education, whether it is as an educator or possibly an administrator. Teach for America has shown with past results and present conversations that they are more than willing to help their corps members get to where they want to be in their career!”
Fun Fact
Tayler is very passionate about English, but she also greatly enjoys documentaries about ancient civilizations! “There are so many stories left untold!”