Inspiring the Next Generation of Educators: Foundation Academies Hosts Teach For America New Jersey's Corps Member Induction Ceremony

At Foundation Academies, we believe that every great educator has the power to impact the trajectory of a child's life. That's why we were honored to welcome Teach For America New Jersey to New Jersey's Capital City for the Teach For America New Jersey Corps Member Induction, celebrating the beginning of an extraordinary journey for the newest cohort of educators who will spend the next two years serving scholars in Camden and Newark. This year's induction marked a historic milestone as the ceremony was hosted in New Jersey's state capital for the first time. The relocation represents more than a change in venue—it reflects a growing recognition that Trenton, a city too often overlooked for educational investment, is emerging as a place of growth, innovation, and leadership in public education.

The day was filled with inspiring stories, meaningful conversations, and a shared commitment to ensuring every child has access to an excellent education.

The program opened with remarks from Foundation Academies CEO Sheria McRae, a proud Teach For America alumna, who reflected on her own journey in education. Beginning as a Teach For America corps member, Sheria shared how that experience shaped her career and ultimately led her home to Trenton, where she has served as a teacher, school leader, and now CEO of Foundation Academies. Her story served as a powerful reminder that a career in education can open doors to limitless opportunities to lead, innovate, and transform communities.

Teach For America New Jersey Executive Director Tahina Perez encouraged the incoming corps members to embrace every moment of their journey, sharing lessons learned throughout her career in education and reflecting on the relationships, challenges, and unforgettable memories that have made teaching one of the most rewarding professions.

Corps members also heard from Year 2 Corp Member and Educator, Khary Golden, who spoke passionately about the profound and lasting impact educators have on the lives of children, reminding attendees that every interaction in the classroom has the potential to shape a student's future. 

One of the day's most memorable moments came with a special visit from Dr. Lily Laux, Commissioner of the New Jersey Department of Education and a member of Teach For America's 2006 corps. Commissioner Laux reflected on her own experiences in the classroom, sharing how the relationships she built with scholars and fellow educators continue to inspire her leadership today. Her journey demonstrated how a commitment to students can evolve into a lifetime of service to public education.

A highlight of the event was a Scholar Panel Discussion moderated by Venetia Birchmore, Managing Director of Leadership Development for Teach For America New Jersey. Foundation Academies scholars spoke thoughtfully and honestly about their classroom experiences, offering authentic perspectives on what makes an educator truly impactful. Their reflections reinforced one simple truth: strong relationships, high expectations, and genuine care leave lasting impressions on students.

The conversation continued during a fireside chat featuring Tahina Perez and Sheria McRae, moderated by Foundation Academies Interim Chief People and Learning Officer Sharifa Edwards. Together, they shared their personal leadership journeys, reflecting on the experiences that shaped them as educators and executives while offering honest insights on growth, perseverance, and the responsibility of creating opportunities for every student to thrive.

The day concluded with an energizing session, "The Power of Us: Leading Change in New Jersey," bringing the new cohort together as they prepare to begin their teaching journey with purpose, collaboration, and a shared commitment to educational excellence.

We extend our sincere gratitude to the Foundation Academies Talent Team for their outstanding work in planning and hosting this meaningful event, as well as to Teach For America New Jersey for their continued alignment and shared investment in the future of education.

This community partnership reflects the mission both organizations proudly share: building brighter futures not only for the children of New Jersey but also for the educators who will inspire, challenge, and lead them for generations to come.

As a lab school, Foundation Academies is committed to developing exceptional educators who bridge educational theory with real-world classroom practice. Through high-quality professional development, best-in-class teacher training, instructional coaching, and innovative educational research, we cultivate a community where educators at every stage of their careers can grow into transformative leaders.

Whether you're just beginning your journey in education or envision yourself one day leading a school—or an entire network—as CEO, Foundation Academies is a place where your purpose can flourish.

If you want to be inspired.
If you want to make an impact.
If you want to be mission-driven.

Foundation Academies is where you want to be.

Learn more and apply today at https://www.foundationacademies.org/careers