OUR VISION

New York City’s students have endless potential—and great teachers add the spark. Our 1.1 million students come from every background and corner of the globe. They speak 184 languages, and 40 percent speak a language other than English at home. Nearly one in five have special learning needs. Three in four qualify for free or reduced price lunch. Each one deserves a vibrant education—one that engages them academically and empowers them personally.

Creating that type of vibrant education takes a special type of teacher. A teacher who sparks students’ curiosity and confidence. A teacher who thrives on constant learning and collaboration with colleagues. A teacher passionate about jumpstarting the next generation of innovators, leaders and citizens.

In short, we need teachers who can spark opportunity.

Since 2005, the New York City Department of Education (NYCDOE) has doubled the number of high school students prepared for college, and graduation rates have climbed steadily, even as we’ve increased our expectations for students. In a school system that educates 1 in 50 of our nation’s public school students, steady improvement is no small feat.

But as a team dedicated to success for all students, we know we must do more—particularly for our students who are starting the farthest behind. We know that nothing kindles student learning like a dynamic teacher. Under the leadership of Chancellor Carmen Fariña, a passionate, lifelong educator, we are empowering teachers and building collaborative school teams.

Guided by our Framework for Great Schools, we’re shaping a city where every one of our children graduates high school—and graduates fully prepared to pursue the future they imagine for themselves. If you’re inspired by our ambitious vision and energized by helping students reach their full potential, join us.

JOIN THE MOVEMENT

In a city where the majority of the 8.4 million inhabitants are people of color, it is important that such diversity is reflected in New York City classrooms.  Diverse cultures, perspectives, and realities are the backbone of our great city, and increased understanding of the rich diversity in our city affects every aspect of our daily lives. Yet, far too many young people in our City—especially young men of color—will never see someone who looks like them at the chalkboard.  If we're going to be serious about addressing inequity in education, economics, health and justice, diverse teachers must be a part of the overall strategy.

In January 2015, Mayor Bill de Blasio, in conjunction with New York City's Young Men's Initiative, made a bold pledge: NYC will develop new initiatives and programs aiming to put an additional 1,000 men of color on course to become NYC public school teachers over the next three years.

The Young Men's Initiative, together with Department of Education, City University of New York, Center for Economic Opportunity, and Teach for America, excitedly announces the launch of NYC Men Teach to recruit and unite Black, Latino and Asian men committed to educating today's diverse student population; supporting each other's professional and leadership development; and to empowering the communities they serve.

Why Diversity Matters

While male students of color make up 43% of NYC’s public school demographic, only 8.3% of the entire teacher workforce is made up of Black, Latino and Asian men.

By 2020, the majority of U.S. children will be youth of color.  Yet their classrooms—which are the bridges to opportunity, access, and success— will not reflect this diversity.  Research shows that students benefit from being taught by teachers with similar life experiences who help create a positive learning environment and leave a profound impact on students' grades and self-worth. As classrooms are also the major cultivators of tolerance, understanding, and appreciation of diverse cultures and backgrounds, a diverse teacher population is also critical to improving the quality of life in our communities. NYC MEN TEACH looks to ensure that all of New York City's young people have diverse role models, teachers, and mentors that represent what makes New York City great: DIVERSITY.

Teachers Matter!

NYC MEN TEACH believes that a well-supported educator results in a better learning experience for all students.  Our recruitment and retention strategy provides support aimed at keeping teachers of color in schools for at least three years.   Currently, we are building out our Principals and Mentor Networks, are seeking counsel on culturally-relevant professional and leadership workshops, and are identifying unique opportunities for community participants to change the education landscape.  NYC MEN TEACH is not only about students.  We are also invested in YOU!