Your next chapter: Become a Miami-Dade teacher through this accelerator program | Opinion
When I began my studies as a biochemistry undergraduate student at the University of Miami, I imagined a future in medicine or research. Teaching wasn’t on my radar. But today, I proudly teach chemistry at Miami Jackson Senior High School — and I wouldn’t have it any other way.
I discovered the profound impact you can have on students, even though education wasn’t the focus of my college studies.
My journey in education began long before college. I started tutoring in high school and continued through college, helping peers navigate complex science and math concepts. What began as a way to reinforce my own learning quickly became something more meaningful.
I found joy in watching someone’s confidence build and understanding click as I broke down difficult material. Over time, I realized I didn’t just love science — I loved helping others love it, too.
Still, as a biochemistry major, my focus was on labs, research, and the path to medical school. For years, I didn’t know how to turn my passion for teaching into a profession. I didn’t have a degree in education and had no idea how to bridge the gap from subject matter expertise to classroom teaching.
That changed when one of my professors, Mathew Deroo — one of the best teachers I’ve ever had — told me about a new initiative: Achieve Miami’s Teacher Accelerator Program (TAP).
TAP offers a unique opportunity for individuals from non-education backgrounds to transition into classroom teaching with training, mentorship, and support. I applied right away and joined the inaugural TAP cohort in 2023. It was one of the best decisions I’ve ever made.
TAP gave me the tools to walk into a classroom feeling confident and prepared. During the school year, we studied the history of education and explored how today’s school systems work. In the summer, my science cohort and I built and delivered real lesson plans to summer school students, supporting each other as we stepped into the profession. We were mentored by experienced educators and challenged to grow through collaboration and feedback.
TAP showed me that a passion for students, paired with rigorous preparation, can be just as powerful as a traditional education degree.
This year, I’ve had the privilege of teaching 11th and 12th-grade chemistry at Miami Jackson and helping launch a new Biotechnology Magnet Program for ninth and 10th graders. It’s been a challenging but deeply fulfilling experience.
Watching students who initially say, “I’m not good at science,” begin to solve complex problems— and then support their classmates — is incredibly rewarding. That transformation, from self-doubt to confidence, is why I teach.
Of course, the work hasn’t come without challenges. But what’s made all the difference is the support I’ve received — from both my TAP mentors and my school community. At Miami Jackson, I’m surrounded by fellow TAP alumni, mentors, and leaders who believe in us. Whether I need resources, guidance, or encouragement, that network is always there.
This fall, I was honored to be named Rookie Teacher of the Year at my school — an award that reflects not only my growth but also the strength of that support system.
As more people consider careers in education — especially those entering from nontraditional backgrounds — programs like TAP are vital. They offer a seamless pathway for those who didn’t major in education but care deeply about learning and want to make a difference.
When teachers are trained, supported, and valued, we show up and make an impact. And when that happens, students thrive.
I’m proud to be a teacher. I’m proud to be a TAP alum. And I’m deeply grateful for the opportunity this program gave me to lead with purpose, backed by a community that lifts me up every step of the way.
If you’re interested in learning more about Achieve Miami’s Teacher Accelerator Program or want to apply for the next cohort, visit teacheraccelerator.org.
Selena Wang is a chemistry teacher at Miami Jackson Senior High School.