There are so many things that I will say in the coming days and weeks about this weekend celebrating Teach for America’s 25th anniversary summit. I feel more hopeful – for the world, our children, and myself – than I have in a very long time. I also feel an urgency to speak up, show up, and never give up on the causes that matter most to me. One of those causes in ensuring that all children – particularly those like me who are low income and high potential – have an equal shot at building a life they love through obtaining a high-quality education. I spent the weekend surrounded by 15,000 people who have this same passion and drive, and it was nothing short of exhilarating to talk to them, hear from them, and be united with them.
My education saved my life. I am not unique in that. Education saves children all over this country every day. And it also loses them. It falls short and disappoints them. Significant gains have been made, especially here in D.C. which is the fastest improving urban school system in the country, but they are not enough. We still have so much to do.
We are only part of the way through our climb. This weekend I found people who can help me keep climbing, and whom I can assist in their climb. Find your tribe. Together we rise.
Christa Avampato 