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Charli Cooksey

Founder and CEO

St. Louis '09

Teach For America alumna Charli Cooksey

Q & A

Why did you decide to join Teach For America?

I felt that it was an organized and strategic way to be effective in the effort to change the education landscape. I knew I would have a support system and learn best practices that would help me move the needle for my students and others.

What surprised you most about your experience teaching?

I was positively shocked about how much support I received. There were so many opportunities for professional development and to work collaboratively with other corps members and alumni.

How did your experience as a corps member influence your career path?

It taught me that if we reform education, we can transform the life trajectories of urban youth and empower them to be the leaders that our country needs. When I saw my students’ unlimited potential and realized that their progress is being stunted by our broken system, I knew I had to commit to fighting for them.