Alumni
Leaders of Color for Systems Change Fellowship
This fellowship is designed to develop the next generation of BIPOC system changers who are passionate about making education more equitable in the immediate future.
The fellowship provides intentional education opportunities, unique real-world experiences, and coaching. In this program you will:
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Explore your identity as a leader of color in the advocacy, organizing, and policy space.
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Further your understanding of the educational landscape in Illinois* through thoughtfully curated sessions designed and led mostly by people of color.
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Build a network of peers who will be your lifelong co-conspirators in advancing educational equity.
*For the purpose of this fellowship, policy will focus on priorities in Illinois, however the tactics, strategy, and tools can be applied in any location.
Information Sessions
Want to learn more? Join a virtual Information Session on June 13th or 18th, or attend an in-person Information Session + Networking Event on July 11th!
Ready to Apply?
Fellowship Experience
Learning
Designed by BIPOC professionals, with input from BIPOC alumni, partnering with a BIPOC curriculum development company, sessions led by BIPOC and BIPOC coaches.
Hands-on Experience
Fellows will take a 1 day trip to Springfield in March or April 2025 (based on legislative calendar) to interact and meet with State legislators.
Coaching
Fellows will receive group coaching to develop soft skills and explore mindsets necessary for this type of advocacy work.
Impact
Fellows will become life-long co-conspirators in our fight for educational equity.
We will have more people who identify as Black, Indigenous, People of Color, who have our lived experience in spaces where they can influence change such as committees, coalitions and other advocacy spaces.
Advocate for policy changes that impact educators, students and families.
Frequently Asked Questions
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The Fellowship will run in-person this year. Some events may switch to being virtual if it becomes unsafe to have in-person events and as participants request. Sessions will take place at our downtown office located at 227 W Monroe, 21st Floor (Studio Offices) Chicago, IL 60606.
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Yes, at this time, this is a requirement of our program.
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The Fellowship will kick-off in early October and close in April or early May, with seminars taking place monthly.
We are still finalizing the program calendar. Please check back soon!
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Applications will open on May 22nd and the deadline to apply is July 21st.
We anticipate selecting the 2024-2025 cohort by mid-August.
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A TFA alum.
An individual who identifies as BIPOC and shares a similar economic background to the students and families we serve.
Someone who is passionate about educational equity and is comfortable using their voice.
An individual who is eager to explore advocacy, policy, or community organizing. Previous experience is not required.
Testimonials
Application Details
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Application Requirements
Submit a Resume
Submit letter of recommendation by email directly to Jasmin Rosales-Montas at jasmin.rosales@teachforamerica.org.
Respond to the following short essay prompts (include in one document)
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Essay 1
Purpose
Please answer the following in less than 500 words:
What education related issue are you most passionate about and why?
What key experiences have contributed to your commitment to urban education?
How is your identity as a BIPOC important in this work?
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Essay 2
Demonstrated Impact
While no previous experience is necessary we want to hear about your impact in your current work or your personal life.
In under 500 words, demonstrate your impact as an advocate for education. You should share the experience(s) where you led/influenced the most people and answer using the STAR format.
STAR format:
Situation/Task–Describe the situation or the task you needed to accomplish, provide context to the issue
Actions–Logically and concisely explain steps you took to address the situation or accomplish the task
Results–Explain the quantifiable results of your actions. How did