Spotlight on Greater Baton Rouge and San Antonio
3 Reasons to Choose Greater Baton Rouge
1. Tuition-free graduate school
Through a partnership with Louisiana State University, second-year corps members may pursue a master’s degree in any subject area, tuition-free (does not include the cost of fees). This tuition exemption excludes Louisiana State University’s veterinary, law, and medical schools. It covers a portion of the costs associated with the university’s professional master’s in business administration.
2. High salary, low cost of living
The average starting salary here is $48,400 which is comparable to nearby big cities that have a much higher cost of living.
3. The community
The level of relationship that can be developed in a rural region gives you access to opportunities to participate in and shape programs, structures, and policies within your school district in ways that aren’t always possible for beginning teachers in larger school districts.
3 Reasons to Choose San Antonio
1. Teachers are paid well
First-year teachers in San Antonio earn one of the highest starting salaries of all Teach For America locations, coming in at $54,000 per year.
2. Yet the cost of living is low
Even though the salary is higher than many places, the cost of living is also very affordable, especially compared to larger Texas cities, with rent ranging from $1,000 to $1,250 per month. With so much good local food (like breakfast tacos), you’ll want that extra spending money in your pocket.
3. Find connection
The city is home to over 400 TFA alums who remain in the classroom, serve on school boards, manage local nonprofits, and lead schools as principals and administrators. Because of this, the local community is well connected, making it easier to move the needle for kids. This is a city that welcomes leaders like you, and you will easily find exactly where you fit.