Kristi Johnson, Alumna

Facts:

Kristi grew up in Alabama, earned her undergraduate degree at Princeton University, and explored a variety of paths before recognizing that teaching was her real calling. She applied to Teach For America based on a "feeling that I belonged in the classroom." After being accepted and placed in rural North Carolina that "feeling" turned into a passion for kids. For two years she taught without any formal training or an official certificate. "My only real qualification was that I loved my students. I still believe that is the most important qualification for any educator, but I knew that I should be offering them more."

Kristi came to TEP to discover how to best meet her students' needs. "I wanted a university that would challenge me and inspire me to challenge my kids." She found that at Harvard. "TEP introduced me to so many amazing people--authors I discovered, professors I interacted with, and friends who challenge and support me still today." After completing her studies, she took a job teaching ninth grade world history at South Boston High School. "My students remind me of the potential for change that exists in the world. My students are powerful, brilliant people. I remind them of that every day, and challenge them to challenge themselves. I acknowledge what they bring to the classroom, and insist that we learn from each other. I hope that valuing who they are instills confidence in them. I also hope that introducing them to new things teaches them to always be open to redefining their beliefs about the world and about what they can become." She continues to give back to TEP as well, working as a Teaching Fellow in a TAC classroom, and serving as a mentor to one of the TAC interns."

Inside Scoop:

"TAC opened my eyes to the cultural context in which I was working and helped me realize that teaching is truly a political act. It helped me discover, and then challenge my assumptions on every level. I learned to teach with purpose and reflect with an eye toward constant improvement. I also met colleagues that support me in numerous ways, and friends that I will stay in touch with for life."

"The people are the best part of the TEP. You will discover amazing colleagues while working to challenge and rediscover yourself!"