Las Vegas, Spring Break 2012

I spent a week in Las Vegas this year through a joint Alternative Spring Break with Teacher for America (TFA) and Zappos, a shoe company with incredible customer service that is headquartered in this city. TFA and Zappos partnered together to address the educational inequity in Las Vegas. Las Vegas is known for its gambling, sex and party scene, casinos…. This was pretty much what came to mind when I first considered applying to the program, but of course, this isn’t all there is to the city. There are many other wonderful things that people who have never been to Las Vegas may overlook (or are simply ignorant about).

There is an overwhelmingly large Latino population. I was a volunteer assistant to a TFA corps member who was taught a 3rd grade class, and I found that 95% of the students are Latino and the other 5% African American. All minorities. I was also taken aback by the tremendous work ethic and brilliance of these children. It shocked me because this same work ethic was not very articulated when I and other undergraduates from across the nation were recruited to present a potential solution to the achievement gap in the Las Vegas valley in front of the Superintendent of the schools.

Teach for American/Zappos 2012 Alternative Spring Break Crew

Las Vegas was an excellent location for us students to get to know each other and build strong bonds. In this program, I met undergraduates from all across the country who have brought with us different experiences, passions, and abilities. I felt unified with such a diverse group of open-minded individuals.

I love education. I genuinely enjoy teaching and addressing the achievement gap. Quality education is crucial for equipping children with the skills necessary to become our next generation of scholars and leaders.

My personal experiences with educational disruptions and challenges in my upbringing have deepened my sensitivity towards educational inequity, one of our nation’s greatest injustices. Children’s educational opportunities are largely determined by their socioeconomic status. The academic achievement gap affects families and communities, limits life options for students, and has significant economic and social implications for our country. I loved this opportunity to join with other avid proponents of the educational rights of disadvantaged and underrepresented children in our nation.