Wilmington, DE, October 25, 2018—Teach For America recruits a diverse group of our nation’s most promising leaders to make an enduring commitment to educational equity, beginning with teaching for at least two years in high-need urban and rural schools. With 150 corps members and alumni currently living and working in Delaware, the organization continues to support leaders dedicated to the pursuit of excellent and equitable education options for all children in the state. Working inside and outside of the classroom, this network includes alumni teachers, school leaders, and leaders of community-based organizations. 

“My career in education started with Teach For America some 15 years ago, and I am honored to serve this great community of dedicated families, outstanding educators and committed community partners where I also have familial roots,” said Tamara Smith, Teach For America Delaware’s new executive director. “As we look towards the future, I am inspired and humbled by the innovative work happening within our schools, but also driven by the reality that many students still face deeply-rooted educational inequity. I look forward to continuing our partnerships with local school communities to provide the best possible education that our children deserve.”

A graduate of Spelman College, Smith started her career in education as a 2003 Philadelphia corps member where she taught English and language arts at Swenson Arts and Technology and University City High School. After her time in the corps, Smith went on to hold a variety of school leadership roles and eventually served as a legislative aide for former Congressman Robert Andrews focusing her skillsets on education, economic development, and immigration policy initiatives. Smith returned to Teach For America in 2014 and held positions within the organization’s national and Connecticut regional teams.

“As a former educator and school leader, Tamara’s breadth of experience and ability to thought partner and foster collaboration will dynamically serve our growing statewide communities,” said Laurisa Schutt, Teach For America Delaware former executive director. “Tamara will continue and advance the work our team has accomplished in deep partnership over the past seven years.” 

In her new role, Smith will build on a strong foundation of partnerships with local school districts, community leaders, and businesses to ensure Teach For America continues to contribute in meaningful ways to expanding educational opportunities for students growing up in Delaware. 

Teach For America has been a community partner in Delaware since the organization launched in 2011. Last year, 35 Teach For America corps members reached more than 18,000 students in local public schools, and more than 125 alumni of the program call the region home. This includes 21 school and district leaders and many others working across an array of sectors to help expand educational opportunities for students and families.