Teaching, Leading, Transforming: The 2024–2025 AmeriCorps Fellows Powering Possibility
“Our AmeriCorps Fellows never cease to amaze me with their passion, dedication, and creativity. They are committed to doing whatever it takes to have a real impact in the communities where they serve.”
At Citizen Schools, AmeriCorps Fellows aren’t just serving—they’re leading. They are mentors, builders, and changemakers who show up every day with empathy, innovation, and bold purpose. Since 2002, more than 1,400 Citizen Schools Fellows have contributed over 4 million hours of service. That’s 4 million hours spent expanding access to hands-on learning, launching mentorship programs, and building stronger school communities.
This year, our 2024–2025 Fellows carried that legacy forward across the country—transforming classrooms, supporting educators, and creating inclusive spaces where students can thrive.
In Massachusetts, Vivian Hurwitz brought her background as a paraprofessional to Shore Educational Collaborative, working with students with diverse needs. “When students do something hands-on, they engage on a much deeper level,” she shared. “It becomes real to them—connected to life and what matters most.”
In the South Bronx, Miles Brown served at Creo College Prep while studying education policy. “Experiential learning should connect the classroom to real life,” he said. “It’s about sparking curiosity and creating environments where students are encouraged to ask questions, try, and grow.”
Annalise Smith, whose work centered on mental wellness and inclusive volunteerism, emphasized relationship-building. “The best first step is understanding our students,” she said. “When you understand and care, you work differently—you work to help them truly learn.”
At South Bronx Community Charter, Gretchen Upton championed student-led learning. “Students can teach each other so much if we let them,” she reflected. “Empowering them to lead makes them more invested in their learning—and in themselves.”
As a VISTA Leader, Leslie Martines Rivera mentored Fellows across the Citizen Schools network, helping them maximize their service and their own growth. “The future of learning isn’t one-size-fits-all,” she said. “Each student needs something different, and it’s our job to pay attention to that.”
At Saratoga Union School District, Eugene Moon used his tech skills to create hands-on, equity-centered learning systems. “Every child has a gift waiting to be discovered,” he said. “We just need to give them the right opportunities and encouragement.”
And in Los Angeles, Rebeca Souza cultivated a vibrant, arts-integrated environment at reDiscover Center. “Experiential learning is about meeting people’s needs through joyful, meaningful experiences,” she said. “It’s not just academic—it’s emotional, social, even spiritual.”
Together, these Fellows have expanded access, built community, and inspired a generation of learners and leaders. Their service has shaped classrooms—and lives—with compassion and creativity.
Throughout July, we’ll continue celebrating their stories. Follow along on LinkedIn and Instagram to meet these inspiring Fellows and see how service is shaping the future of education.