Tara is a second and third grade teacher at Learning Without Limits in Oakland’s Fruitvale district. She started as a reading specialist but realized she wanted to have a bigger impact and received her Master’s in Elementary Education. Tara taught fourth grade in Harlem, N.Y. for a year before coming home to the Bay Area.
Why public education?
I grew up going to public schools and I saw the inequities that existed in education and that lit a fire under me. That experience drives my desire to teach, and the ways in which I build relationships with students.
Why Oakland?
I was born in Oakland and grew up in Berkeley. I love Oakland because of its diversity — in people, in opinions, in landscapes, and in architecture. I came to Oakland after living away from the Bay Area for a decade, knowing that it was where I wanted to stay.
What are your vices?
Reality television is my greatest vice. If it’s about a housewife, I’ll watch it. Preferably in marathon form.