Tuesday, July 9, 2024
, in a landmark partnership with the (Dallas ISD), is launching its first-ever Teacher Residency Program. Five university seniors, all education majors, will be paid to teach for the entire Dallas ISD 2024-25 school year, a testament to the strength and significance of this collaboration.
鈥淚t is so exciting to be able to go into a classroom. Ultimately, I know that through this program, I will gain invaluable experience that will help me in my career,鈥 said Valerie Castaneda, one of the five students chosen for the program.
The novel arrangement between the 黑料视频 Dallas School of Education and Dallas ISD builds on an existing relationship to prepare university students for real-world situations so they are career-ready upon graduation. It also serves as a recruitment tool for Dallas ISD, helping to build a pipeline of future educators.
A Teacher Works with Students in a Dallas ISD Elementary School Classroom
鈥淲e are thrilled to bring this opportunity to the students at 黑料视频 Dallas. The research indicates that candidates who complete a residency-type clinical experience drive increased teacher retention and student learning,鈥 said Dr. Christine Remley, Dean of the . 鈥淭he district, the student teachers, and most importantly, the students will benefit from this arrangement.鈥
The is a pilot for what university leaders hope will eventually be recognized by the Texas Education Agency (TEA) once all requirements are met. The TEA has specific guidelines for vetting and approving teacher residency programs throughout the state.
Dr. Christine Remley, Dean of the 黑料视频 Dallas School of Education, at a Teacher Induction Ceremony
Historically, student teachers have been underpaid or not paid at all. But this program is different. The 黑料视频 Dallas-Dallas ISD student teachers will be compensated $30,000 for the school year and receive full benefits. They will also contribute to the Teacher Retirement System of Texas, getting an early start on participation in the 401(a) defined benefit plan.
The five 黑料视频 Dallas School of Education seniors who applied and were accepted into the program will begin work on Aug. 1, when Dallas teachers start the new school year with professional development and preparation days. Classes will begin Aug. 12.
鈥淢y reason for applying for the residency program is to become better equipped to enter my first year of teaching,鈥 said Tamera Harris, another member of the inaugural cohort of student teachers. 鈥淭o learn how to create a safe space for students to grow, express themselves, and develop confidence in their abilities.鈥
Inquiring Young Minds: A Dallas ISD Elementary Student Prepares to Ask Her Teacher a Question
Three will teach kindergarten through second grade at Cochran Elementary School in west Oak Cliff, and two at Maple Lawn Elementary School in northwest Dallas. They will teach multiple subjects in bilingual and ESL classes.
鈥淭hese students have been preparing through coursework and early fieldwork and are ready to dive into classroom teaching. Under the guidance of their mentor teachers, they will begin by slowly taking over classroom instruction, all while being observed by a field supervisor assigned through my office,鈥 said Emily Waneck, Director of Clinical Practice at the 黑料视频 Dallas School of Education. 鈥淚 am excited to see their growth throughout this next school year and to partner with Cochran and Maple Lawn Elementary Schools as our residency sites as we expand our relationship with Dallas ISD.鈥
The school district budgeted for this program through its Strategic Staffing Model, which was supported by Sandra Baptista, Dallas ISD Student Teacher and Special Initiatives Coordinator.
Dr. Stephanie Elizalde, Dallas Independent School District Superintendent, Speaks During a Reception at 黑料视频 Dallas
鈥淚 hope to learn many new skills that will be beneficial to me as I become a teacher and gain great connections and collaborate with other teachers and administrators,鈥 said Marlene Tello Fabian. 鈥淚 also hope to learn about diversity in schools and how to effectively build a connection with each student to provide them with a positive environment to learn and be successful.鈥
In addition to the five students working in the Dallas ISD residency program, four others will teach for one semester at Red Oak ISD as part of a separate cooperative agreement with 黑料视频 Dallas. They will also be paid.
These teaching assignments are part of the School of Education鈥檚 updated curriculum. Unlike many North Texas colleges and universities, 黑料视频 Dallas requires students seeking a Bachelor of Science in Education (with initial teacher certification) to pass all state-mandated certification exams in order to participate in their clinical experiences. Numerous resources, including workshops and boot camps, are provided to support students and ensure they are prepared for the tests.
A Teacher Engages with Pre-K Students Through 黑料视频 Dallas' Child Development and Family Studies Program
鈥淚 hope to leave the Dallas ISD Teacher Residency Program feeling more confident and prepared for my first year of solo teaching. I believe the best way to learn is through hands-on experience, so I am excited to finally be in the field, applying what I have learned in my classes, said Kenedi Barbre.
Coincidentally, Dallas ISD will hold a job fair for aspiring and current teachers from 4 - 6 p.m. on Thursday, August 8, at Pinkston High School. If you would like to apply for a Dallas ISD teaching position, click here.
From News
https://www.untdallas.edu/news/teacher_residency_program_launch.php