SPOTLIGHT
Strengthening the Future of Education How one student organization hopes to inspire the next generation of educators
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INTERVIEW BY JESÚS CHÁVEZ eaching is facing a profound shortage of new blood. The average age of teachers across the country is around 42, per the National Center for Education Statistics, with the majority of teachers aged between 30–49 years old. The number of college students attending and completing teacher preparation programs dipped 23% between 2007 and 2016, according to a 2018 report by the American Association of Colleges for Teacher Education, and about half of all college graduates who went into the teaching profession ended up leaving it altogether in less than five years. Commonly cited factors such as low pay, lack of support or autonomy, changing curricula, and stressful working conditions have added to the perception among students that entering the teaching profession might not be worth the hassle. 30 ATPE NEWS
Whatever the case may be, it’s become clear young people are increasingly resistant to the idea of becoming teachers, at least for the long term. Enter the Texas Association of Future Educators (TAFE), a statewide nonprofit student organization focused on giving middle and high school students the opportunity to explore teaching as a profession early on so they know what to expect when they begin their careers. With approximately 7,000 members across Texas, TAFE’s goal of inspiring young people to become dedicated teachers might be key to ensuring the future of the profession. ATPE is a professional learning partner to TAFE and spoke with Donita Garza, the TAFE state program director, about the organization, its goals, and more. Garza has been with TAFE for 16 years and is in her sixth year as director.
