Detroit’s challenges have been well-documented, and today we have some of the highest-need schools in the country.  As a Detroit native and former teacher, I am ready to accept the challenge of helping put this city back on track. Both economically and in education, the tide is already starting to shift.

Our past experience proves that community investment and partnership are absolutely essential if Teach For America is going to have a long-term positive impact in Detroit.  We are honored to have strong support from local political and school leaders, a growing alumni base, and the partnership of other education nonprofits. We had 100 corps members join Teach For America • Detroit in 2010, with about 100 more on the way in 2011. 

It’s an exciting time to be in Detroit and watch the city rebound. The automotive industry, the heart of Detroit’s industry, is starting to grow again, and leaders in both the auto and education sectors have determined that innovation is the key to revitalizing the region. Beyond Excellent Schools Detroit, we have the support of a number of new education nonprofits in the region. Future Teachers for Social Justice is a college-readiness program that encourages DPS students to teach in the area after earning a degree. The Skillman Foundation’s Good Schools program focuses on creating schools with high graduation rates and college matriculation. There are high expectations for the Detroit region, for education reform and the city, and we are working with our community partners to exceed expectations.