HONOLULU (KHON2) — Teaching is one of the most impactful professions, and for those who feel a calling to make a difference in the lives of students, there are numerous pathways to entering the field.
One of those paths is through Teach For America (TFA), a national organization dedicated to ensuring that all children have access to an excellent education.
In Hawai‘i, TFA has become a critical resource for those who want to dedicate themselves to education while simultaneously making a lasting impact in local communities.
Jill Baldemor, Executive Director of Teach For America Hawai‘i and Senior Vice President, Regional Field Executive, has spent nearly two decades growing and shaping TFA Hawai‘i into what it is today.
Through her leadership, TFA has not only transformed local classrooms but also empowered its corps members to create positive, lasting change.
Baldemor’s own journey began in 1995 when she first joined Teach For America as a teacher in Washington Heights, New York. She shared her initial attraction to TFA, explaining that, “The vision and mission of Teach For America — to ensure that all kids have access to excellent educational opportunities — was what drew me in from the start. I had a great education myself in Hawai‘i and at Northwestern University, and I wanted to help ensure that every child had that same opportunity.”
Her experience in New York was a formative one, working in a school where many students spoke Spanish, a language she did not know.
“I learned so much about the brilliance of our children and their true potential,” Baldemor reflected.
She quickly saw how systemic barriers made it harder for marginalized communities to thrive but also how, when educators care deeply about students, they can rise to challenges.
This firsthand experience reinforced Baldemor’s commitment to TFA’s mission and later led her to return to Hawai‘i to expand the program.
Today, Teach For America Hawai‘i is celebrating its 20th year of impact. “In 2026, we will mark 20 years of transforming lives in Hawai‘i,” Baldemor said proudly. “Together with the support of our partners and the dedication of our corps members, we’ve opened doors for so many brilliant students.”
Over the years, TFA Hawai‘i has grown from a small group of 100 corps members to a network of over 600 education advocates working across the state.
10 things to know about becoming a teacher in Hawai‘i through Teach for America
1. TFA welcomes a diverse range of applicants: You don’t have to be a recent college graduate to join Teach For America. Baldemor emphasized, “We are open to both college students and career changers. People from all walks of life can apply. Whether you’re a recent grad or someone who’s worked in a different field, if you’re drawn to the mission of TFA, you can join.”
2. A bachelor’s degree is required: To become a TFA corps member in Hawai‘i, you must have a bachelor’s degree. Baldemor clarified that applicants can be in the final stages of their college education or already graduated. “We do accept juniors and seniors who are on track to graduate.”
3. Teacher certification and support: One of the unique benefits of joining TFA is the support you receive to become a certified teacher. “Teach For America Hawai‘i is a state-approved teacher education program,” Baldemor explained. “We provide coursework and support to help you gain the necessary credentials while you are working as a full-time teacher.” This support allows individuals who don’t already have an education degree to receive the proper certification without having to go back to school for another degree.
4. Leadership development and beyond: TFA is not just about teaching—it’s about leadership. “Teaching is a direct impact on future generations,” Baldemor said. “But it’s also about leadership development. As a teacher, you have the opportunity to grow professionally and personally, learning how to lead, advocate for students, and create lasting change in your community.”
5. A mission-driven network: TFA’s work goes beyond the classroom. Baldemor noted, “While we need educators in classrooms, we also need school leaders, policymakers, and healthcare professionals who understand the challenges our marginalized students face. Teach For America is about building a network of passionate, committed individuals who will make a difference in education and beyond.”
6. A rigorous selection process: TFA maintains a high standard when selecting its corps members. “It’s a pretty rigorous selection process,” Baldemor said, “but we’re looking for people who are deeply committed to our mission of educational equity. We want to bring in a diverse group of individuals who care about making a difference for all kids, especially those in underserved communities.”
7. Community impact is at the core: The work of a TFA corps member is deeply rooted in the community. “We believe in getting close to our students and their communities,” Baldemor explained. “It’s not just about what happens in the classroom; it’s about building relationships with students, parents, and the community as a whole to create lasting change.”
8. TFA Hawai‘i embraces local culture: Hawai‘i is a unique and special place, and TFA embraces its local culture. “Our work in Hawai‘i is deeply tied to the community and to Hawaiian values,” Baldemor said. “We want people who are committed to learning about and respecting the local culture and history. TFA is about more than just teaching; it’s about being part of the ʻohana (family) and contributing to the broader community.”
9. Ongoing support and professional growth: TFA Hawai‘i provides its corps members with continuous support. Baldemor noted that corps members are not alone in their journey. “We offer mentorship, professional development, and the opportunity to collaborate with fellow educators, both within the TFA network and in the broader school community.”
10. The long-term impact of joining TFA: “The work you do with TFA is not just for today, it’s for the future,” Baldemor said. “We want our corps members to be part of a movement that will shape the future of education in Hawai‘i and beyond. Whether you stay in the classroom or move on to another role in education or public service, the leadership and experiences you gain with TFA will help you continue making a difference in the lives of others.”
Teach For America Hawai‘i is an invaluable resource for those looking to make a profound impact on education in the state. Whether you are a recent graduate or someone looking to change careers, TFA provides a clear path to becoming a teacher while also offering the opportunity to grow as a leader and advocate for change. With its mission-driven approach and deep commitment to the community, TFA Hawai‘i continues to shape the future of education in Hawai‘i for generations to come.
As Baldemor prepares to step down as executive director in 2026, she reflects on the program’s journey: “We’ve come a long way, but our work is far from over. I am proud of what we’ve accomplished, but there is so much more to do. Together, we’ll keep fighting for the educational equity that every child deserves.”