Boundless Educators Initiative

Representation in the classroom matters, and we know that students in St. Louis benefit from expanded access to educators who reflect their communities. Schooling in our city has historically contributed to systems that perpetuate inequities and injustice. Training and supporting well-prepared, diverse educators creates a positive impact for all students and contributes to a more just system of schools.  As a result, Teach St. Louis is proud to partner with National Center for Teacher Residencies’ Boundless Educators Initiative, to intentionally recruit and develop more teachers from underrepresented and historically undersupported communities.

How We Support BEI Participants

Financial Support

A key component of our BEI program focuses on removing financial barriers for participants pursuing a career in the classroom. Financial benefits include: 

  • Tuition Forgiveness: BEI participants are eligible to receive $8,000 in tuition forgiveness towards the cost of certification and their Master’s degree. Tuition forgiveness is granted following each year of program completion.

  • TEACH Grant: Participants are eligible to apply for the TEACH Grant. This $8,000 federal grant covers the majority of the remaining tuition for the Master's degree.

  • Additional Stipend: BEI residents have the opportunity apply for additional stipend support in the first year of the program to supplement the salary provided by their school.

Building Community

Teach St. Louis is committed to developing a community that celebrates and supports the success of our educators. This requires developing strong relationships as a foundation - both within our cohort and with the schools, districts, and communities where we partner. The BEI cohort experience is designed to cultivate community connection and provides opportunities to collaborate and gather with educators both within and outside of the residency program.