We craft meaningful experiences for educators of color in Tennessee to amplify their voices, advocate for equitable policies and practices, and expose them to leadership opportunities.
What is the Ascension Project?
In 2020 TECA and Teach Plus partnered to recruit aspiring educators in educator preparation programs (Ascenders) along with demonstrably effective, solutions-driven teachers of color to serve as mentors (Ready to Lead Fellows) in a strategy to build support for teacher quality, diversity, and equity efforts.
Now, Ascenders participate in eight informative sessions and meet three times with their mentor over the course of the year-long leadership development program. The program also pairs Ascenders with TECA Fellows, incorporating more in-person convenings in Middle Tennessee.
Ascenders receive a stipend for participation, paid in Fall and Spring.
Now, Ascenders participate in eight informative sessions and meet three times with their mentor over the course of the year-long leadership development program. The program also pairs Ascenders with TECA Fellows, incorporating more in-person convenings in Middle Tennessee.
Ascenders receive a stipend for participation, paid in Fall and Spring.
Why create the Ascension Project?
Candidates of color often enter the profession from preparation programs that did not adequately prepare them for the realities of being a teacher of color. Additionally, as they are navigating their programs, they are often absent from the mentoring and relational connectivity of current teachers of color in the field as well as faculty of color in the program. We aim to bridge this gap.
What is included in the Curriculum?
Ascenders are selected from traditional and alternative educator preparation programs across
Tennessee. Ascenders receive professional development and curriculum in six key areas:
Tennessee. Ascenders receive professional development and curriculum in six key areas:
- The Education Landscape in Tennessee
- A broad history of education in the state and updated information relating to demographics, policy trends, school board 101, and more.
- Entering the Profession
- A panel of HR professionals who share what it takes to become a teacher, including any district-level DEI support, leadership, and resume workshopping.
- Leadership and Personal Development
- A grounding session to help Fellows find fulfillment in work and in themselves.
- In-service supports
- A variety of opportunities for assistance in financial literacy, health care, and classroom curriculum support.
- Content-specific PD
- A session unique to every cohort based on solicited feedback and suggestions from the Ascenders and their specific needs.
- Working in different school contexts
- A panel designed to illuminate the experience of working in Charter, Outdoor Education, Montessori, and more.
What are Alumni saying?
This program was amazing. The mentors were top tier. They were so patient and very informative to us and I always appreciate when someone takes time out of their life to help me. The program was well put together and one of the best experience I've ever experience since choosing education. I am very thankful."
This program was really helpful and provided me with answers to my questions. It also allowed me to participate with my busy schedule. I like that I can relate to the mentors and get knowledge from them.
My biggest takeaway from this program when it comes to my future career, is to be sure to do all of my prior research on a specific school and district to ensure that it is the best fit for me. Also, networking and connecting on professional levels could help me to venture out and find job opportunities.