The Aspen Institute’s Policy Academy will design new courses for rural educators in new Teach for America partnership
Teach for America, an education non-profit, has announced a new partnership with the Aspen Institute’s Policy Academy supporting training for rural educators.
The Policy Academy will design custom courses for educational leaders looking to lead instructional and operational improvements to their schools and communities.
The Rural School Leadership Academy (RSLA) will see a group of fellows join a national network of peers to receive career development training and support tailored to their specific roles each year.
The training will be delivered through a combination of virtual learning, in-person gatherings, rural school visits, and personalized coaching.
“The heart of rural schools lies in the leaders who choose to stay and invest in their communities,” explains Casey DeFord, Managing Director of Alumni Career Advancement & Field Integration at Teach For America.
“RSLA was created to walk alongside those leaders—helping them grow, connect, and see what’s possible. Our partnership with the Aspen Institute will deepen RSLA’s impact by equipping fellows with the policy skills needed to drive lasting change.”
Betsy Cooper, Director of the Aspen Policy Academy, adds:“We believe rural educators bring deep wisdom and lived experience to the table. This partnership will enable educators to address unique challenges in their schools through policy entrepreneurship. By learning how to navigate the policy landscape, they will gain the insight and resources they need to create long-term sustainable impact.”
All participants will be awarded a co-branded certificate of leadership development following completion of the all learning modules and activities.
