FAQ

A one-year combined academic experience and on-site teaching residency offer our students the critical support they need to become effective teachers in high-need and underrepresented communities. Teacher residents become immersed in their communities and are involved in decision-making that impacts future generations. Our students graduate ready to hit the ground running on day one.

Yes, the Teacher Residency requires a full commitment. Between your academic coursework, synchronous and asynchronous courses, and your residency schedule, you will have a full workload and likely not be able to hold another job. We highly recommend you dedicate yourself solely to the program for the year as you will be at capacity.

Teacher residents participate in synchronous sessions twice a week in the evenings where they engage in live virtual courses with peers and faculty. They also complete asynchronous course work on their own schedules.

Individual residency schedules will vary, but all teacher residents are required to be on-site at their contracted school Monday through Friday with hours determined by the school. However, some residency commitments require fewer hours overall in the classroom, leaving more time to focus on the program’s academic synchronous and asynchronous course work.

The Teacher Residency program is structured to support you in balancing your coursework with the residency requirements. You’ll spend your weekdays at your residency site, Monday through Friday, while completing asynchronous coursework on your schedule. Additionally, you’ll participate in two live virtual class sessions on weeknights. This integrated approach allows you to manage both components effectively.

No, not all teacher residents will receive compensation and/or benefits. Compensation and benefits are solely determined by the district, network, or school – and can vary greatly by school. Some teacher residents can potentially receive compensation and/or benefits. Compensation can include financial support in the form of tuition scholarships, stipends, and wages. Benefits can include health, dental, vision, and/or life insurance.

No, teacher residents cannot choose their residency location/school. Students may indicate schools in which they are interested during the admissions process, but ultimately the partnership schools select candidates and offer them hiring contracts. Teacher residents have the option to accept or decline their residency offers. Once accepted, they become fully committed and contracted to the school for the duration of the residency.

No, there is no flexibility to change your residency. Teacher residents sign a contract with the partnership network, district, and/or school and become contractually obligated to stay for the remainder of the teacher residency.

Beyond differences in compensation and post-residency commitment, the key difference lies in how these schools operate. NYC Public Schools are district-run under the NYC Department of Education and generally follow standardized policies and regulations. NYC charters and regional district/charter schools operate independently, allowing for more flexibility in educational approaches, curriculum, and policies. As a result, teacher residents may experience different teaching methods and structures depending on their placement.

You can view our teacher residency locations to learn more about our partner schools, including student population and priority initiatives, as well as residency year details.

As a teacher resident, you’re expected to treat the classroom like a professional environment by meeting all attendance requirements, engaging proactively, and maintaining a professional demeanor. Maintaining a high standard of ethical conduct and demonstrating adaptability are also key to your success.