This Is a Teacher is currently in its pilot phase, beginning with teachers working in the city of Chicago. Whether you’re interested in sharing your teaching practice, helping tell these stories through photography, or simply following the project as it grows, there are a few ways to get involved.
You are the heart of this project. If you’re currently teaching in Chicago, I’d love to hear about the questions, challenges, and decisions you’re actively grappling with in your practice.
Help build the visual language of the project by photographing teachers in the spaces where their work takes place.
To give the public a closer look at the complexity inside everyday teaching, this project needs teachers willing to open up their practice—and photographers who can help us see that work with fresh eyes. If someone comes to mind, I’d love to hear about them! Nominate a teacher to be featured or a photographer to help bring their story to life.
You don’t have to be a teacher or photographer to help! Follow This Is a Teacher on Instagram and LinkedIn, and like, share, or comment on posts that move you—every interaction helps bring greater public attention to the expertise behind everyday teaching.
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This timeline is tentative and will depend in part on how quickly I can connect with Chicago teachers interested in participating. You can help move the project forward by sharing it with teachers in your network! If you know a Chicago teacher whose work you wish more people understood, please invite them to complete this interest form — or submit a nomination, and I'll reach out to them directly!
July–September 2026: Conduct the first round of teacher interviews
August–October 2026: Coordinate photography sessions with selected participants
October–December 2026: Publish the first round of profiles and begin the next round of interviews