If You’ve Got a Teacher Org, Make Sure it Respects Teachers

In 2010, I got hired to design a program for teachers.

I decided to scrap any model that smacked of reform.

Here’s the 5-Step framework I used to scale a program from 200–1000 STEM teachers in @NYCSchools based on a simple principle:

RESPECT

@MathforAmerica

🧵👇

Step 1: Define core principles

Most orgs focus on improving teachers.

I focused on teachers’ expertise & knowledge.

If you take this approach:

• You’ll design a program that teachers want to attend

• You’ll provide opps for leadership that don’t lead out of the classroom

Step 2: Design a program

Instead of focusing on gaps to fill, I thought about the ways that teachers are experts.

Why?

Because if you think about math and science teachers as mathematicians and scientists, you can create a program that’s truly enriching & invigorating.

Step 3: Design an admissions process

After you’ve successfully done 1 & 2, it’s time to figure out how to select participants.

• First think: core principles

• Then design a written part

• Then design an in-person part

Both should assess key aspects of the core principles

Step 4: Build a great team

At this point, you’re already hiring.

If you did 1–3, Step 4 should be easy because you know what you’re looking for.

Don’t forget:

• Keep core principles at hand

• Hire experts who believe those same principles

• Give them autonomy & support

Step 5: Recruit teachers!

That’s it! Now it’s time to figure out how to populate that program!

• Hire someone from a (good) political campaign who knows data

• Make sure you’re accounting for bias in the system & reaching a diverse audience

• Free beer doesn’t hurt here 😂

The reason this framework works so well is because it values both the teachers being served AND the employees doing the work.

So, don’t fall into the trap of thinking that teachers need to be better.

Instead, think how we can do better for our teachers.

TL;DR: The 5-Step Framework to building an organization that uplifts teachers

• Develop core principles

• Create a matching program

• Add a matching admissions process

• Hire a kickass team who live the idea

• Scale with proven recruitment tactics

Give a 🙌 to some of the folks continuing the work:

@sarah_a_rooney @MDriskillMfA

& especially MfA Prez @jewing90866553 whose endless support made it all possible.

#MfAproud

Read this post and more on my Typeshare Social Blog