Rhode Island

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• Overview
• Schools
• Certification and testing
• Cost of living

	Teach For America #7 'Best Place to Launch a Career' »

Rhode Island will be a new Teach For America site for the 2010-2011 academic year. In Rhode Island, only 12 percent of low-income high school students are proficient in math and only 53 percent are proficient in reading. They are about one-third less likely to perform at grade level in reading and two-thirds less likely to perform at grade level in math than their more affluent peers.

As a member of a charter corps, you will play an important part in shaping Teach For America’s role and reception in Rhode Island and impact the direction and scope of the local movement for educational excellence. Corps members will teach in Providence Public Schools and at Democracy Prep Blackstone Valley, a public charter school serving children from Central Falls, Pawtucket, Cumberland, and Lincoln.

Life

While just 1,214 square miles, Rhode Island boasts a distinct New England flavor and charm. Residents are proud of their state and for good reason. They enjoy the Providence waterfront, the local jazz and arts festivals, and the diverse cultures and foods. “The Ocean State” boasts 400 miles of coastline with more than 100 public and private beaches. Many housing and eating options cater to the students of Brown University and the Rhode Island School of Design. Residents enjoy the outdoors by biking and hiking, while also maintaining easy access to the entertainment of a big city. Providence is conveniently located an hour away from Boston by train or car.

Corps Culture

Members of previous charter regions have enjoyed knowing that they are part of Teach For America’s beginnings in a new community, and that through achieving student gains and building strong community relations, they have an impact on Teach For America’s success. Charter corps members tend to have a particularly strong bond and have unique opportunities to take up leadership positions to grow the impact and community of the corps. Corps members will be supported by a regional executive director and program staff. Several Teach For America alumni in education, law, business, and finance already currently reside and work in Rhode Island.

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