Applications Open for the 2026–2027 Embark Cohort
A Student Teaching to Career Pathway for Future Educators
Embark Program Scholar Haley Garcia teaching an FA Middle Chemistry lesson
Foundation Academies is excited to announce that applications are now open for the 2026–2027 Embark cohort, our signature Student Teaching to Career Pathway Program designed to support aspiring educators as they move from student teaching into full-time classroom leadership.
Built for future teachers who are passionate about equity, excellence, and urban education, Embark creates a direct bridge between preparation and profession.
For candidates ready to make an immediate impact, this is where the journey begins.
What Is the Embark Program?
The Foundation Academies Embark Program is a formal pathway connecting clinical student teaching experiences with professional placement opportunities across our schools.
Designed to strengthen the educator pipeline, the program provides aspiring teachers with:
A $5,000 student teaching stipend
Mentorship from high-performing lead teachers
Coaching from Teaching & Learning leadership
Workshops in classroom management, culturally responsive pedagogy, and leadership
Priority hiring opportunities after graduation
A $2,500 hiring bonus for successful graduates
Embark helps remove barriers that often make student teaching financially challenging while ensuring future educators are fully supported as they prepare to lead in urban K–12 classrooms.
Who Should Apply?
Embark is designed for high-performing teacher candidates who are ready to grow into impactful urban educators.
Priority is given to candidates pursuing certification in:
Math
Science
Spanish
ESL
Elementary K–6
However, all certification areas are encouraged to apply.
Strong candidates will demonstrate:
A 3.0 GPA or higher
NJ student teaching eligibility
Positive practicum or field placement performance
Strong professionalism and adaptability
A commitment to culturally responsive teaching
Passion for community-centered education
From Student Teaching to Full-Time Teaching Careers
Embark is not just about completing a placement—it is about launching careers with purpose.
This pathway is already helping future educators transition directly into Foundation Academies classrooms. Members of our first cohort are already stepping into full time opportunities, including Embark scholars like Sy’Maya, who will begin as a full-time music teacher in Fall 2026.
That is the heart of Embark: building a sustainable teacher pipeline rooted in talent, mentorship, and mission alignment.
How to Apply
Application Window: Rolling admissions until all spots are filled
Applicants should submit the following materials:
Official or unofficial transcripts
A 500–750 word personal essay
Two letters of recommendation
Teaching artifacts or portfolio samples
Final interview participation if selected
Submit all materials to: embark@foundationacademy.org
Apply to Embark Today
If you are ready to turn your passion for teaching into meaningful impact, the Embark Program offers the mentorship, financial support, and career pathway to help you thrive.
At Foundation Academies, we are building futures by investing in the next generation of educators.
Apply today and begin your journey from student teacher to classroom leader.
