So it’s been a little while since I updated…Since the last post I have finished finals, and am in the meat of my pre-institute work. I’m also reading pretty much anything I can get my hands on about teaching, first-year teaching, and education inequity. This inspired the book I just finished (literally five minutes prior to typing this)….
Lessons to Learn: Voices from the front lines of Teach For America by Molly Ness
This is a collection of stories and views from people across the spectrum, from teachers to parents, and even some students of the TFA experience. It seeks to provide insight into the individuals that make up the movement and their impact on the community. The best part about this book…it really is Fair and Balanced (at least something still is). It doesn’t shy away from TFA critics (even when they come from within the organization itself) and it admits the flaws that the organization has worked through and with which is it still struggling.
Molly tries to paint an accurate picture of the immensely complex system of individuals who have made TFA what it is today, and to show that both critics and advocates have legitimate claims. Molly recognizes the fact that TFA has changed a great deal since the experiences of some of the corps members interviewed (including some of the charter corps of 1990), and that it continues to grow and improve with each passing year. I highly recommend this book to anyone who has recently, or is considering joining TFA, as well as parents whose children are embarking on their journeys.
If nothing else, this book makes me realize how many stories, good and bad, are out there. TFA will place its 18th corps group this year, and, with a network of over 17,000 individuals, the stories of success and failure are copious. This book reminds us that we are a part of something bigger than us, bigger than our classrooms, and even bigger than this organization. TFA alums go on to do amazing things, in education and beyond. We have the opportunity to go out into this world and make an impact that will resonate forever.
With alumni in sectors ranging from business and health care, to policy and international affairs, TFA will continue to be the impetus for change in years to come because of each and every corps member who has joined its ranks. To my fellow first year CM’s, good luck, and may we merit the task for which we have been chosen. To those who have come before us, thank you for setting the groundwork on which we will stand, and for raising the bar for us and our students.
Days until institute: 56
Links to more information or to buy Molly’s book…
Next on the reading list: Teach Like Your Hair’s on Fire by Rafe Esquith
