This process [of training and certification] is difficult, but it really is worth it.  Our students desperately need teachers who care and are dedicated to their success. RITF will give you the chance and the skills necessary to be one of those teachers.

-2009 Special Education Fellow

Understanding the Achievement Gap in Rhode Island

Research shows that the single most important factor in raising student achievement is the teacher in the classroom. This is your chance to make an impact and meet the call for action. Change careers and join the field of education in order to make a difference where your talents, knowledge, and commitment are most needed.

Rhode Island has 36 public school districts and within this number, four of the urban districts in our state are responsible for educating approximately 45,000 students - approximately 30% of the total public school student population. These urban districts comprise a diverse community of children, including significant numbers of African-American, Hispanic, and Asian, students. Many students in these urban districts come from lower socioeconomic backgrounds – with more than six out of 10 students in these communities eligible for free or reduced lunch – compared to statewide rates where only 3 out of 10 students qualify*. Rhode Island’s public school students call on you to help them realize their potential. Become a teacher in one of the state’s highest-need public schools by applying to the Rhode Island Teaching Fellows program.

For years, student achievement levels have followed a dangerous downward cycle as students proceed to the next grade. In the 2006-07 school year, the vast majority of elementary schools were making strides in student learning with only 9% of schools in the state making insufficient progress. However, at the middle school level that number jumped to 17% and at the high school level, a staggering 40% of schools are making insufficient progress in helping our students master the skills they need for a bright future. Fewer than half, only 37%, of our 11th grade students are performing at the proficient level in writing on the state standardized test. And, only 22% of students in grades 3-11 are performing at the proficient level in math on the state standardized test**. We need teachers who are especially committed to helping their students overcome these challenges.

Rhode Island Teaching Fellows have a responsibility and an opportunity to do more to set and meet high expectations for all students in our state. The Commissioner of the Rhode Island Department of Education has a simple motto, “Every decision we make will be based on what is in the best interest of our students.” The Department is in the midst of an aggressive push to ensure that all school communities are places where teachers and students can thrive to meet the high academic standards we expect. Their strategic plan identifies goals to help students increase achievement, to address community issues that affect schools and to improve communication with the community. Reform efforts are already underway. This is your opportunity to become a part of this reform, by becoming a teacher dedicated to impacting the lives of the students in your classroom.

The Role of Teaching Fellows in Closing the Achievement Gap

Small state, big impact. Join a network of outstanding educators who are dedicated to closing the achievement gap.  Rhode Island Teaching Fellows will form a dedicated cohort of new teachers with a shared mission of closing the achievement gap and changing the lives of our state’s students. Members of the 2010 RITF Cohort will be accountable to each other and to their students.

Teaching will be the most difficult job that you will ever love.  The first year for any new teacher is challenging, and Fellows should anticipate an intense effort, especially at the beginning of the year. A full teaching day is just under seven hours, from start to finish. Beyond the formal school day, Fellows should expect to spend substantial time out of class preparing lessons, grading student work, and communicating with parents and guardians. They may have after-school meetings with school staff, their grade-level or subject team, or students’ family members. Fellows will also attend streamlined seminars in their content area as they pursue their teaching certification, as well as professional development activities to support their classroom efforts.

Rhode Island Teaching Fellows understand that their hard work can make a difference in the lives and academic achievement of our state’s children. Apply today.

Want to learn more? Visit the Rhode Island Department of Education website for more information about the schools in our state. Join us for an Information Session.

* Source: www.infoworks.ride.uri.edu/2008/state/infoworks2008-web.pdf
** Ibid.