26-27 Resident Teacher

Program Description

Are you a current or soon-to-be college graduate looking to become a credentialed middle or high school classroom teacher? Are you committed to social justice and want to teach youth in ways that center their cultural frameworks and lived experiences? Are you passionate about supporting Black students in racially isolated communities?

If so, The Next Black Educator Workforce (NBEW) program is for you. This innovative graduate and credentialing pathway helps aspiring educators gain real classroom experience while completing their credential or master’s degree through one of our partnering universities or graduate institutions.

Program Highlights

• Flexible Path to Your Teaching Credential: Depending on the partnering institution, complete your program over one or two years—earning your teaching credential and/or graduate degree while gaining hands-on experience in schools that reflect your values and purpose.
• Classroom Experience: Work as a teacher assistant or paraprofessional in a classroom setting, co-teaching with mentor teachers, progressively leading instruction, and eventually transitioning to become a teacher of record.
• Culturally Responsive Professional Development: Participate in professional development sessions focused on culturally responsive teaching, restorative justice practices, and effective family engagement, aimed at fostering equitable classroom environments and building strong community relationships.
• Financial and Career Planning Support: Gain access to financial coaching, career planning, and mentorship that supports your growth both personally and professionally.
• Advocacy and Leadership: Contribute to program improvements, advocate for underrepresented students, and leverage the alumni network for ongoing leadership development.

Who Should Apply

NBEW seeks college graduates committed to teaching and supporting Black students in racially isolated communities. You should have a passion for social justice, be eager to center students' lived experiences, and want to amplify Black voices and leadership in education.

Racial Isolation

Racial isolation is the experience of being the only or one of the few individuals of a certain race in a community, school, or workplace. This can lead to feelings of loneliness and alienation, as well as limited access to cultural support or representation in these spaces.

Program Features and Benefits

• Hybrid Model: Participate in virtual classes to complete credentialing coursework and attend in-person residencies for immersive professional development and networking opportunities.
• Hands-On Experience: Gain practical teaching experience by working as a teacher assistant or paraprofessional in partnering schools.
• Mentorship: Receive personalized guidance from experienced educators who understand the unique challenges of the teaching profession.
• Professional Development: Participate in culturally responsive training and leadership development opportunities.
• Financial Guidance: Access financial advisory services to support your career and financial planning.
• Networking: Build connections with a nationwide community of Black educators and allies dedicated to educational equity.
• Leadership Opportunities: Gain access to long-term pathways for growth and impact in education.

Qualifications

• Bachelor’s degree from an accredited college or university (required).
• Passion for fostering equitable and inclusive learning environments.
• Willingness to embrace challenges, learn from feedback, and grow as an educator.
• Dedication to the NBEW mission of empowering Black educators to lead and inspire.