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Become a Summer Teaching Fellow.  Rewrite the rules.

"Summer Teaching Fellows changed the way I think about education and about myself. Being a part of such a successful, dynamic school environment was inspiring, and I discovered that not only can I be a teacher, but that it’s what I want to do. I recommend this program to anyone who wants to stretch themselves and make a difference in others’ lives."

—Keith Jones, 2008 Fellow, Morehouse College

 

Program Description

The Summer Teaching Fellows Program (STF) is a highly competitive, unique fellowship designed to introduce college students to teaching and urban education reform through hands-on experience in public charter school classrooms and tailored professional development opportunities.  This fellowship is a collaborative effort between Achievement First (AF) and Uncommon Schools (Uncommon).

The program takes place in New York City. You will work and teach at one of our partner schools located in various neighborhoods throughout Brooklyn. The program includes visits to other schools within the charter school community and other public schools operated by the New York City Department of Education.

As a Fellow, you should expect a rigorous and time-intensive seven week program from late June to early August. Specific program dates will be available mid-January. You will generally work Monday to Friday from 7:30 am to 4:00 pm (plus commuting time), with professional development sessions lasting until 8:00 pm on a few days of each week. To help you enjoy all that summertime in New York City has to offer, we also organize fun weekend and evening events!

 

Application

A high priority of STF is to promote the diversity of the teaching staffs at AF and Uncommon, and thus we are committed to recruiting fellows from traditionally underrepresented backgrounds.  We aim to recruit a group of individuals who exhibit perseverance, optimism, a passion for teaching, and a deep interest in learning what it takes to work effectively in racially and ethnically diverse urban school communities.

Thank you to everyone who applied by the March 1st deadline! We look forward to being in touch with you soon.

 

FAQs

Why should I be a Summer Teaching Fellow?

STF is a unique experience that past fellows have described as invigorating, challenging, and rewarding. Benefits of the program include:

  • Exploring the teaching profession through hands-on practice in the classroom. After spending six to eight weeks learning and practicing the fundamentals of teaching, you will be well-informed about whether or not teaching is a good career match for you

  • Building relationships with like-minded individuals who care about education and social justice the way that you do

  • Exploring New York City by enjoying its robust culture and experiencing the many things to do in the nation’s largest city

  • Potentially receiving a job offer to teach at one of America’s top-performing schools after graduation

What is a charter school?

A charter school is an independently run public school granted greater flexibility in its operations in return for greater accountability for its performance. The "charter" establishing each school is a performance contract detailing the school's mission, program, students served, performance goals, and methods of assessment.

Is this a paid internship?

You will earn a stipend of $3,500.

Will housing be provided?

Yes.

Do I need a car?

There is no need to bring a car during your summer with us. You will be provided with free, unlimited access to public transportation during the fellowship.

Can I receive college credit for participating?

Unfortunately, STF cannot arrange college credit for you. However, we will assist you in your efforts with your college/university as needed.

 

Please also view the Uncommon Schools general FAQs.

 

See How We Do It.

As you learn more about Uncommon Schools and STF, consider joining us at our upcoming professional development opportunities, which include workshops, open house visits, and informational webinars. For more information, click here.

 

 

Uncommon Schools is proud to partner with Achievement First in offering and operating the Summer Teaching Fellows program.

www.achievementfirst.org