Empowering Future Educators: TEPF Funds EdRising Curriculum in Richmond Public Schools

At The Endowment Project Foundation (TEPF), we are deeply committed to fostering educational excellence and addressing critical needs in our communities. We are excited to announce a significant initiative to tackle the teacher shortage and enhance diversity within the teaching profession. Through our Richmond Public Schools Fund for Teacher Excellence, TEPF has provided crucial funding to support the implementation of the Educators Rising (EdRising) curriculum in two Richmond Public Schools (RPS) high schools: Richmond High School for the Arts and Armstrong High School.

The EdRising curriculum, developed by PDK International, is designed to inspire high school students to explore careers in education. This program provides clear pathways to teaching professions, addressing the current shortage of teachers and aiming to increase diversity within the field. By engaging students from diverse backgrounds, EdRising encourages them to consider teaching as a viable and rewarding career option.

Our initial investment has unlocked a $30,000 match, enabling the expansion of the EdRising curriculum to three additional RPS high schools. Once fully implemented, this program will serve a total of 200 students, offering them invaluable opportunities to gain practical classroom experience and insights into the teaching profession.

Recognizing the program's potential and value, RPS has committed to funding the EdRising initiative after the first year, ensuring its sustainability and long-term impact on the community.

In addition to supporting students, TEPF is dedicated to enhancing professional development opportunities for current educators. Recently, we facilitated attendance for teachers at the Virginia Interscholastic Athletic Administrators’ Conference. This event equipped attendees with skills in coaching, student leadership, and the development of student activities programs such as speech, debate, yearbook, and creative writing.

"Alumni and communities have a deep commitment to their public schools, and TEPF is helping them invest in their school's future. We are honored to have played a part in bringing these much-needed resources to build tomorrow's teachers and education leaders," said Leighann Boland, Executive Director of The Endowment Project Foundation.

With initiatives like EdRising, we are not only addressing immediate educational needs but also investing in the future of our communities. By empowering students to become educators and providing them with the tools and opportunities they need, we ensure a sustainable and thriving educational environment for generations to come.

We are excited about the journey ahead and look forward to seeing the positive impact these initiatives will have on our schools, students, and communities. Thank you for your continued support in making these transformative projects possible. Together, we are shaping the future of education.