Jenny Ly (pictured in pink shirt) with BTNOLA students

Why are you interested in education?

Education is the foundation of our society, and it’s one of the determinants of success. Every student deserves a quality education that will enable them with the tools for success. 

When did you realize that you wanted to become a teacher?

I think I always knew that I wanted to be a teacher. I have a distinct memory of myself at around five years old when I would play teacher instead of dress up. I would pretend to hand out papers and stand at the front of the room, teaching about ridiculous things. However, I majored in Political Science during my first year at Tulane and was hoping to go into educational policy. It wasn’t until my internship in NYC later that summer that I realized I wanted to be in the classroom.  

How did working for Breakthrough influence your interest in teaching?

Since I started the teacher certification program late at Tulane, I was a few classes behind and did not receive a lot of opportunities to teach. I was passionate about teaching, but just because someone is passionate about singing doesn’t necessarily make them a great singer. So, I wanted to see if teaching really was the profession for me and if I even could do so. My first summer at Breakthrough instilled such confidence in my teaching abilities and reaffirmed my belief that teaching is what I am meant to do. Even my teaching professors noted in our formal observations how comfortable I was with the students and in front of the classroom, and it’s all thanks to Breakthrough. 

What will you miss most about being a Breakthrough Teaching Fellow?

I will miss all of my students. The bonds that I forged with them are lifelong, and I know they are going to accomplish such great things. They are some of the most intelligent, wise, and funny people I have ever met, regardless of their age. When I was a Teaching Fellow, I was in constant awe at their ability and their commitment to their education. They were my first students, and they will always hold a special place in my heart and my memory. 

What are you excited about in your new position as a teacher in Dallas?

I am most excited about learning how to be a better teacher. I chose my program, Urban Teachers, because their values and mission align so perfectly with my teaching and life philosophy. I love learning, and I love that I will be learning how to be the best version of me so that I can give my students an exceptional education that they deserve. 

Breakthrough Collaborative

180 Grand Ave #1225, Oakland, CA 94612, USA