School Improvement Fellows (SIF) directly impact the learning of low-performing students, not as teachers, but as leaders of better teaching. While they are guided by a proven school improvement approach, there is no single formula for success. Individuals who are energized by the opportunity to innovate, motivate and advocate in the area of equity-driven school change thrive in this program. Individuals who seek a role that encourages initiative, ingenuity and independence while also being supported by an organization passionately committed to closing the achievement gap will excel in this program. SIFs evolve as results-oriented leaders, advocates for equity and social change agents experienced in leading sustainable school improvement.

Specifically, SIFs gain:

• Firsthand experience leading change focused on improving teacher practice and closing the achievement gap at multiple levels within a school
• Knowledge and ability to build the capacity of school staff-particularly teachers-to continuously improve and support their development as instructional leaders
• Instructional and organizational leadership skills to develop professional learning communities and drive sustainable school improvement
• Deep familiarity with the operations of a low-income public school and the requirements of leadership across the system
• Confidence that systemic, sustainable school improvement and achieving dramatic student gains are possible
• Understanding of the implications of policy (federal, state, district, school) and its real effects on schools

At the end of the Fellowship, SIFs carry the knowledge of their own and others' capacity to lead change into their next career steps. As powerful gap-closing leaders and effective change agents, they are prepared to enter positions as teacher leaders, school reform facilitators, coaches and other senior school improvement roles. Given their ground-level school improvement experience, they are also equipped with a unique perspective and skill set with which to pursue an administrative credential, advanced degree or role in policy or research.

Exceptional SIFs may be promoted to carry out more leadership responsibilities in their second year of the Fellowship (including mentoring an incoming first-year SIF), and to a more senior position within the organization after the Fellowship is complete.

If you are interested in channeling your belief that all students can succeed into the innovative and challenging work of improvement in our schools, then we hope you consider becoming a SIF.

» Apply for a School Improvement Fellowship