Frequently Asked Questions

What is a residency?

Teacher residency programs are, by definition, school-serving teacher education programs that pair a rigorous full-year classroom apprenticeship with masters-level education content. Building on the medical residency model, teacher preparation programs provide residents with both the underlying theory of effective teaching and a year-long, in-school “residency” in which they practice and hone their skills and knowledge alongside an effective teacher-mentor in a high-need classroom.  Teacher residents are paid a $24,000 teacher assistant salary that is paid by the partner school during the teacher residency year. More information: nctresidencies.org.

Do I need to be a recent graduate to be eligible?

No. Professionals and career changers as well as recent graduates are eligible.

Do you have high school placements?

No. At this time, placements are made in grades 1-6. All residents have the option of earning certification extensions in both middle school and early childhood.

How are residency placements made?

Faculty at the college and school administrators identify highly skilled teachers to serve as mentor teachers through a mentor teacher selection process. Mentors and residents go through a matching process to determine strong matches. The matches are made in the spring of year one. The residency begins in the fall of year two.

What type of candidate are you looking for?

All individuals interested in working in urban elementary schools. Special consideration will be given to candidates who understand the lived experiences of the children they may teach and display a passion for teaching.

What is the criteria for the Residency Scholarship?

Candidates who meet entrance requirements and are accepted into the program are eligible for a Teacher Residency Scholarship that covers 30% of graduate tuition.

Do I need an education degree to be eligible?

No. A bachelor’s degree in any major is eligible.

How long is the program?

The program is completed in two years. Residents maintain FT student status in year 1 and 2 and apprentice in a school FT in year 2.

What certifications are available through the program?

Residents will pursue certification in Childhood and Special Education in grades 1-6. An early childhood extension and middle childhood extension are also available options.

When does the program start?

August of each year.

Is program entrance competitive?

Admission is selective. The process consists of an application, written component, and an interview.

What kind of coursework is involved?

The coursework for the Western New York Teacher Residency program mirrors that of the MSEd in Childhood 1-6/Special Education 1-6 (initial/professional) program.

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