EDCOE Teacher Residency Program Shaping the Future of Education

09:30 AM - October 04, 2023

Quality educators are the cornerstone of a thriving educational system and the El Dorado County Office of Education (EDCOE) has taken an innovative step toward addressing the critical shortage of teachers in our community. Spearheaded by the dedicated leadership of Dr. Carolyn Parker, Director of Teacher Residency, the program has emerged as a strong pathway for inspiring educators. Teacher Residents have pledged to teach within El Dorado County for at least four years after program completion, building a stable teaching force. 

Dr. Ed Manansala, El Dorado County Superintendent of Schools, couldn't be prouder of the program's successful launch and expressed, "The EDCOE Teacher Residency Program has been an innovative paradigm shift for our county. It addresses the shortage of teachers and creates a pool of educators who are deeply committed to our students and community. Thanks to this remarkable initiative, our future looks brighter for the teaching profession across El Dorado County."

Launched at the beginning of this academic school year, the program pairs 17 experienced mentor teachers with 13 enthusiastic residents. The program spans across several school districts and county-wide programs, thanks to a partnership with the Teacher College of San Joaquin (TCSJ). The program is a one-year immersion into teaching, providing residents with the experience and knowledge they need to excel.  

Golden Sierra High School in Black Oak Mine School District
From left – Student Layla Trusty, Mentor Susan Evans, Teacher Resident Erin Watson, and Student Ava Riolino

Maria Anderson, Teacher Resident, explains, "Being a resident in a kindergarten classroom at Schnell Elementary School has been nothing short of wonderful for me. While I was initially on the path to obtaining my teaching credential through an online program, this residency has proven to be a game-changer. Not only is it more affordable than the online teacher credential and master's degree I had considered, but it also comes with numerous benefits. The stipend provided by the program is incredible. Yes, it's a quick and intense program with a time commitment, but its flexibility is fantastic. Many of us are busy moms with kids, and this program aligns perfectly with our schedules. What makes this program truly exceptional is its deep connection to the local community. Being part of a close-knit cohort means that help and information are always available. Our classroom students also reap the rewards of this program as we work closely with our mentor teachers to enhance the classroom experience. It's a win-win for everyone involved, and I couldn't be more excited to continue on this journey." 

Pleasant Grove Middle School in Rescue School District
On left Mentor Amanda Warner and on right Teacher Resident Cari LeRoy

Kristina Hughes, Mentor Teacher at Jackson Elementary School, added, "I am very excited to participate in the Residency Program. It is an accelerated program that digs deep and presents everyday challenges and successes to the Resident. The length of time allows the Resident to build relationships with the students and to see their academic and emotional growth throughout the school year. It is a rare opportunity to spend this amount of time with the guidance and support of not only the Mentor, but the complete school site community. We can embrace and support our Resident as they navigate through the onsite learning and offsite classes. The Mentors are also learning coaching and teaching techniques that not only benefit the Resident but directly benefit us and the students. It is a needed opportunity and an incredible program that allows Residents to get into the classroom and truly see what it is like. This program will enable Residents to feel prepared and confident with their decision to pursue a career in teaching." 

As referenced, the program is firmly rooted in collaboration, fostering strong bonds with the school site and district where residents are placed. Kim Little, Superintendent of Pollock Pines Elementary and Silver Fork School Districts noted, "The program provides solutions that bridge the gap between our needs and desires. We often need teachers, but it's a challenge to discover precisely what we're searching for. This initiative allows us to construct classrooms with individuals from within our community, tailoring our workforce to suit our school's unique needs. In doing so, we can cultivate the perfect fit for our students, families, and communities. It's worth noting that one of our residents, who has served as a substitute teacher in our district for over 20 years, has finally been able to pursue her dream of becoming a teacher, thanks to the structure of this program." 

Understanding aspiring educators' financial challenges, the program offers interest-free payment plan options, grant opportunities, and residents receive a $23,000 cost-of-living stipend. In addition, nine to twelve units of coursework count towards a master's degree in education from TCSJ. 

The next steps for the 2024-25 school year include creating a recruiting timeline, assessing district hiring needs, increasing enrollment in hard-to-fill credential areas, and evaluating the program's ongoing success. The 2023-24 cohort application deadline may have passed, but the journey is far from over. If you're passionate about shaping the future of education and want to be part of the 2024-25 cohort, visit teacherresidency.edcoe.org

 

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