Teach For Armenia’s Work in Nagorno-Karabakh (Artsakh)
(2017–2023)
Teach For Armenia launched its efforts in Nagorno-Karabakh (Artsakh) in 2017, with a deep commitment to expanding educational opportunities in underserved communities. Through the placement of committed Teacher-Leaders, we invested in students, empowered educators, and built enduring partnerships with families, schools, and local leaders.
Between 2017 and 2023, our Teacher-Leaders served in communities across Nagorno-Karabakh (Artsakh), collaborating closely with stakeholders to strengthen learning environments and advance student potential. These years laid the groundwork for what became a long-term commitment to the region, one rooted in trust, resilience, and a shared belief in the transformative power of education.
Years of Service (2017-2023)
Schools Served
Teacher-Leaders Placed
Students Reached
Education in Emergencies
(2020 War Response)
In the wake of the 2020 Artsakh War, Teach For Armenia launched a rapid-response Education in Emergencies initiative to support forcibly displaced students across Artsakh and Armenia. Recognizing the urgent need for both academic continuity and emotional healing, we mobilized resources to meet students where they were, providing support and guidance.
Through this effort, we distributed over 500 care packages to families and, in partnership with the Armenian Missionary Association of America, provided tablets and internet access to 250 students who lacked digital connectivity, ensuring their continued ability to learn remotely.
In parallel, we partnered with local coalitions and mental health professionals to offer trauma-informed teaching, social-emotional learning, and art therapy, including sand-art classes, to help children process the psychological toll of war and rebuild a sense of safety, expression, and community.
Right to Education During the Blockade
(December 2022–September 2023)
In September 2022, the Government of Azerbaijan launched a series of attacks on civilian communities within the Republic of Armenia, specifically in the Gegharkunik, Syunik, and Vayots Dzor regions, including areas where Teach For Armenia places Teacher-Leaders to work in partner schools.
From December 2022 until September 2023, the Government of Azerbaijan imposed a total blockade of Artsakh, severely disrupting access to food, healthcare, and education. Over 30,000 children were affected, in violation of their rights under international law. The closure of the Goris–Stepanakert corridor paralyzed movement, making it impossible for local and international organizations to operate.
Civilians were unable to return to their communities, and our staff, alumni, teachers, and students found themselves trapped under siege conditions. Access to education was completely cut off, and our communities endured severe malnutrition and critical health crises.
During the forced and total displacement of Artsakh’s people in September 2023, Teach For Armenia’s students, communities, stakeholders, staff, teachers, and alumni were profoundly impacted. Tragically, some of our students lost their lives as a result of the indiscriminate shelling and bombing of civilian areas.
These are not just personal tragedies; they are violations of the fundamental rights of children to learn, to thrive, and to live in safety and dignity.
Education in Emergencies
(2023 Response & Onward)
In response to the 2023 forcible displacement of the Armenian population of Nagorno-Karabakh (Artsakh), Teach For Armenia launched a coordinated emergency initiative to support students and families as they resettled into new communities and began the long process of healing.
Building on lessons learned from our 2020 war response, we established the 405 Educational Alliance, a coalition of organizations dedicated to providing comprehensive, wraparound support for forcibly displaced students. In close collaboration with the Government of Armenia, we are working to transform public schools into local hubs of resilience, coordinating access to education, psychosocial support, nutrition, and other essential services.
Our goal is to ensure that every child and family affected by displacement has the foundation they need to begin rebuilding their lives with dignity and hope.
Our Impact in Nagorno-Karabakh (Artsakh)
Partnerships in Action
A Living Legacy
The work of Teach For Armenia in Nagorno-Karabakh (Artsakh) created lasting bonds between Teacher-Leaders, students, and communities. Many alumni from the Artsakh program continue to serve in education and public service across Armenia, carrying forward the values and experiences that defined their time in service.
Their stories-of resilience, commitment, and hope-remain a powerful testament to the transformative power of education, even in the most challenging circumstances.
Support Our Work
Help us continue providing education and support to displaced students and communities.