The paid fellow internship supports Breakthrough Atlanta’s dual mission to increase academic opportunity for highly motivated, underserved students and get them into college ready to succeed; and inspire and develop the next generation of teachers and educational leaders. 

Teaching Fellows gain first-hand teaching experience through instructing middle school students in Breakthrough Atlanta’s Summer Program, a program that combats the summer learning loss that occurs among underserved students. It is a component of Breakthrough Atlanta’s six-year, tuition-free, year-round program that provides a pathway to college for hundreds of middle and high school students each year. 

“Our dual mission is more critical and relevant than ever as Breakthrough tackles teacher shortages and educational divides in Georgia,” said Monique Shields, CEO of Breakthrough Atlanta. “The Teaching Fellow program is cultivating the next generation of educators through meaningful service while inspiring younger students to achieve their college dreams.”

Through a grant from AmeriCorps, the residency allows Teaching Fellows to practice skills applicable to both school and professional settings. From May to July 2025, Teaching Fellows will complete 300 hours of service as teachers, mentors, role models, and learners themselves. Topics include lesson planning, feedback techniques, family conferences, presentations, time management, project planning, teaching academic and elective classes, and learning to work with a diverse team of colleagues and students.

Following their experience, approximately 75% of the teaching fellows indicate that they are more likely to pursue a career in education because of their internship at Breakthrough Atlanta.

The program is open to college students of all majors, whether or not a student has decided to pursue a career in education. Undergraduates with a passion for working with students and a deep interest in social justice are encouraged to apply. The program seeks to reflect the diversity of our community and welcomes applicants from a variety of backgrounds and experiences. Participants receive a stipend and education award. 

The deadline for early applications is January 16, 2025. The regular deadline is February 27, 2025.