The Educate ME Foundation's Black Teacher Residency (BTR) program is a transformative pathway for aspiring Black educators, designed to develop, support, and equip them with the skills and resources needed to become effective K-12 teachers. In partnership with Marian University's Klipsch Educators College, BTR residents will earn a Master of Arts in Teaching (MAT) degree while gaining hands-on experience teaching full-time within a partner school. The program also provides a full scholarship, a full first-year salary, and access to mental health and homeownership support. The program concludes after two years, with residents graduating fully licensed and ready to lead their own classrooms.
Program Components
Targeted Recruitment and Development
Focus on attracting Black candidates committed to a career in education.
Comprehensive training and development program designed to nurture and prepare future educators.
University and District Partnership
Collaboration with Marian University's Klipsch Educators College and local K-12 schools to ensure a well-rounded, real-world teaching experience.
Structured, Gradual Release Model
Emphasis on supportive growth through a model that fosters independence while ensuring strong mentorship and guidance.
Financial Assistance
Full scholarship covering tuition costs and reducing financial barriers, along with a full first-year salary for residents.
Benefits
Full Scholarship: BTR residents will receive a full scholarship to cover tuition for the MAT degree at Marian University.
Salary: Residents will earn a full-time salary during their residency year.
1:1 Mentorship: Residents will be paired with an experienced, highly effective mentor teacher in their first year.
Cohort Model: Residents will progress through the program alongside a cohort, fostering peer support and collaboration.
Homeownership Assistance: Residents aspiring to become first-time homeowners may qualify for support through the Black Teacher Fund.
Mental Health Support: Free therapy sessions provided through partnerships with local community mental health providers.
Eligibility Criteria
To be eligible for the Black Teacher Residency program, applicants must meet the following requirements:
Self-Identify as Black
Bachelor's Degree: Conferred by June 1, 2024, with a minimum GPA of 2.50 (on a 4.0 scale)
Official Transcripts
Meet Marian University Admissions Requirements: Complete all requirements for admission to Marian University's Klipsch Educators College
Legal Work Eligibility: Meet all legal requirements to work in the U.S.
Criminal Background Check
Teaching License Status: Cannot hold an active professional teaching certificate. Conditional, emergency, substitute, and temporary licenses expired for 3 or more years are acceptable.
Additional Requirement:
While minimum test scores are not required, candidates must demonstrate proficiency in basic academic skills by submitting one of the following assessments: