We’ve gathered thought leaders from the education community to provide additional guidance
Leaders including nationally recognized classroom teachers, school administrators, higher education leaders, private sector leaders and education-minded philanthropists.
“I know how difficult it can be to start a teaching career. Proper support is critical both with teaching practice and understanding the real world of teaching. This model meets both of these needs. Most importantly, it is infused with understanding social and emotional learning with students and seeking cultural competency, both of which are needed to achieve student learning.”
– Jessica Davis, Racial Equity Instructional Coach, St. Louis Park Public Schools, Minnesota Teacher of the Year 2019
“Supporting new educators is critical to ensuring a successful start to teaching and increased student learning. This model pairs the practical wisdom of listening to teachers’ classroom experiences with evidence-based teaching practices, training and coaching. Because it is led by the Teachers’ Association, the new teacher feels completely safe to take risks, engage in honest conversations and improve their practice.”
— Sharon Gallagher-Fishbaugh, National Board Certified Teacher; National Network of State Teachers of the Year Board Member, National Teacher Hall of Fame Board of Trustees
“New teachers are humbled by the importance of their work, and they’re also quick to discover its complexities – especially now, in the midst of a pandemic. This initiative provides a professional framework that listens to the needs of new teachers and provides guidance from trusted, more experienced colleagues. Teachers’ unions have an important and significant role to play in this environment, and this innovative support model will help novice professionals navigate a challenging landscape.”
— Charlotte Danielson, one of the most recognized authorities on teaching practice in the United States.
FOUNDERS & BOARD OF DIRECTORSOur founders and board represents seven Midwest Education Associations
Audrey Soglin
Executive Director, Illinois Education Association
Jennifer Clutter
Director of Finance & Accounting, Indiana State Teachers Association
Mary Jane Cobb
Executive Director, Iowa State Education Association
Mike Shoudy
Executive Director, Michigan Education Association
Denise Specht
President, Education Minnesota
Scott DiMauro
President, Ohio Education Association
