Hear From Our Current Fellows

Catherine Jacobsen Herrera

Catherine Jacobsen Herrera is currently a teaching fellow at Excel Academy Charter High School. 

“When deciding my post-college path, the Excel Teaching Fellowship seemed like the perfect choice for starting a career in education. I was excited to spend a year learning from dedicated teachers, participating in professional development sessions, and having classroom practice before jumping into a full-time teaching position. Moreover, Excel’s unwavering commitment to diversity and inclusion was a decisive factor in choosing an institution aligned with my values.”

Nikki James

Nikki James is currently a teaching fellow at Excel Academy Charter High School. 

“The Fellowship itself has been incredible. I can see how the structure of the Fellowship, PDs, feedback structure, and layered learning has helped myself and my cohort to enter into teaching with a strong foundation. The learning opportunities have been phenomenal for my learning needs. Watching members of my cohort gain confidence and grow into confident educators has been beautiful. Teachers compliment us for our ability to keep kids working when we’re providing coverage. I feel like I’m an important part of the school already.”