Pros
Lots of pros, but I will highlight what makes AF stand out based on what I've heard about similar organizations:This is an organization that is constantly looking to evolve and make working in our field a more joyful, fulfilling, and sustainable opportunity. They take organizational health really seriously, and craft policy/vision to reflect trends in what people want to see improve and need in order to sustain the work. AF puts people first and will invest in your development in all stages. You will not be expected to be perfect- but you will be expected to be reflective and to want to grow. People you work with will care about you as a person and understand that you have priorities beyond the school day. They will also work really hard. The organizational efforts to improve diversity and become a truly inclusive workplace are genuine and are making a real difference. Affinity groups and mentorships are well supported. This is an organization that authentically believes in honest and direct feedback and understands that everyone has a unique perspective to learn from.
Cons
The work in and of itself is hard- but that is true no matter what organization you go with. AF is still learning and still growing, so programmatic evolution (improvements and changes) that affect everyone and require ongoing alignment of vision & teamwork are a part of the work here. Further- and also common of charter networks- a fraction of people who come in do not intend to teach long-term (or do not know if they want to), which can cause a higher turnover rate or a lower-than average number of years of experience than might be seen in a more traditional setting. However, it seems like in the last couple of years teaching/staff at schools is on the whole becoming older and more experienced - potentially as a result of the teacher career pathway?