José grew up in a similar community where he taught and held his students to high standards. His belief that all children deserve an excellent education continues to guide his career in education and nonprofit leadership.

Q&A

Why did you join TFA?

I joined TFA because I truly believe education is the avenue for empowering historically disenfranchised communities to dismantle the status quo. TFA’s effort to ensure all students have access to high-quality education directly aligns with my vision for my community and the future I anticipate for this nation.

What’s your favorite TFA memory?

Working at my placement school has been my fondest TFA memory. Voices College-Bound Language Academies is grounded in social justice, and relentlessly works to combat the status quo. Voices’ attention to teacher development and support ensures our students are consistently held to the highest expectations because we KNOW they can and will meet them.

How has TFA impacted you?

TFA has embedded in me a passion, a sense of urgency, and a sense of purpose in life. Having gone through TFA, I am now fully aware of my future aspirations and life trajectory. My experience with TFA has inspired me to continue my work in education beyond the two-year commitment. In the future, I hope to lead a school as school principal and eventually a district as superintendent. TFA has shown me that with a strong vision, passionate teachers, a growth mindset, and strong leadership, the road to “one day” is within reach.