Teach Kentucky, Inc.

Overview

Teach Kentucky, Inc. is a nonprofit organization dedicated to recruiting motivated and diverse individuals to teach in Kentucky's public schools. Founded in 2003 by Rowan Claypool, the organization aims to enhance the quality of education by bringing talented educators to the region, particularly in the Louisville area.

History and Mission

Since its founding, Teach Kentucky has successfully placed over 400 new teachers in Kentucky's public schools, with a significant number teaching within the Jefferson County Public Schools. The organization is driven by the belief that education is crucial for future opportunities and that all children deserve access to high-quality education, regardless of their socioeconomic status. Teach Kentucky focuses on retaining teachers in the area, with a three-year retention rate exceeding 70%, surpassing the national average of 50% [1].

Program and Support

Teach Kentucky's program is designed to support new teachers through a comprehensive network. The organization offers an eight-week Summer Institute, providing hands-on teaching experience and personalized guidance from veteran educators. Each participant is matched with a veteran teacher mentor and a Retired Teacher Advocate for ongoing support. Additionally, Teach Kentucky fosters a tight-knit community that welcomes new members and integrates them into the local social scene, helping them establish a personal connection with the city [2][3].

Community Impact

By attracting and retaining talented educators, Teach Kentucky contributes to improving public education in Kentucky. The organization's community-oriented approach not only supports new teachers but also helps them integrate into the broader community, promoting long-term retention and commitment to the profession. This model has proven effective in creating a sustainable and passionate pool of educators who become integral parts of their schools and communities [3][4].

Leadership and Partnerships

Rowan Claypool serves as the founder and president of Teach Kentucky. The organization also involves a team dedicated to teacher support, recruitment, and fund development. Teach Kentucky has partnerships that provide resources and support for participants, including housing assistance for new recruits transitioning to Louisville [2][3].

Impact on Educators

Teach Kentucky's focus on community building and holistic support has led to the development of highly effective educators. Participants often find personal fulfillment in their roles and become involved in the broader Louisville community. As a result, some have received recognition for their teaching excellence, such as being nominated for state teaching awards [3].