Our Values
Core Values
We work to change practices, structures, and policies to realize educational equity for all children. As we do so, we actively examine our roles in perpetuating inequitable systems.
We assume responsibility for our collective strength by developing relationships, building diverse and inclusive coalitions, and challenging one another to be our best. We act with empathy and extend grace to ourselves and others.
We pursue ambitious, meaningful outcomes that lead to access and opportunity for all children. We hold ourselves to high standards, make data-informed decisions, and orient to long-term success.
We act on our beliefs and values, especially when it’s hard. We center our efforts on the aspirations of our students and their families.
We acknowledge the limitations of our perspectives. We seek different points of view and historical context to evolve our thinking and actions.
We see every challenge as an opportunity to think expansively about solutions. When faced with obstacles, we deepen our resolve, adapt, and persist with optimism.
We operate with curiosity and embrace new ideas to innovate and constantly improve. We take informed risks and learn from successes, setbacks, and each other.
Diversity, Equity, and Inclusiveness
Realizing educational equity and excellence will take a broad and diverse coalition of people united around a common purpose and shared values. The change effort must be shaped by those of us who are most directly impacted by educational inequity. And progress is only possible if each of us works effectively across lines of difference—with students, parents, partners, and each other—and if each of us understands and leverages the assets we bring to this work based on our identities and life experiences.
In all we do, we act on the following beliefs:
- Diversity is crucial for successful change efforts and is one of Teach For America’s greatest strengths.
- The full potential of our diverse network will be reached only when we are an inclusive community.
- The predictability of success or failure for our students or individuals in our organization should not correlate with any social, cultural or other identity-based factors.
Learn more about Our Work.