Are you passionate about making a difference in the lives of young learners? Do you envision a career where you can inspire, lead, and shape the future? Western New Mexico University’s Teacher Residency Program is your gateway to an exciting and fulfilling career in education.
Earn While You Learn
The WNMU College of Education is proud to offer a Teacher Residency Program that allows you to earn a minimum of $35,750 for a yearlong guided apprenticeship. This unique opportunity enables you to work alongside a mentor educator, gaining invaluable hands-on experience while finishing your coursework. Teacher Residency is one capstone option for pre-service teachers.
Hands-On Teaching Experience
Dive into the heart of teaching with our immersive residency program. The College of Education collaborates with school districts throughout New Mexico to provide an intensive yearlong experience for residents. You will begin working with your mentor teacher before the academic year begins. From the first day of the fall semester, you’ll be working alongside your mentor teacher to set up your classroom management system, co-plan for co-taught lessons, take the lead in instruction of small and large groups, and use assessment data to co-reflect on student learning. You will be actively involved in all aspects of teaching up until teachers leave for summer break. This real-world experience is designed to prepare you for the challenges and rewards of a teaching career.
Personalized Mentorship
Our program pairs each teacher resident with a mentor teacher who provides one-on-one guidance and support throughout your journey. Learn from their expertise, receive personalized feedback, and build lasting professional relationships that will support you throughout your career. According to Associate Professor of Secondary Education Dr. Stephanie Fanselow, who directs the program, “We ask mentor teachers to think of themselves as preparing the teacher residents to be their future colleagues.”
Comprehensive Curriculum
Our innovative curriculum combines cutting-edge educational theory with practical application. You’ll explore diverse teaching strategies, classroom management techniques, and culturally responsive teaching practices essential for today’s diverse educational settings.
Financial Support and Compensation
Recognizing the financial needs of our students, the program offers a minimum stipend of $35,750 for teacher residents as well as compensation for the mentor teacher and school administrator. Financial support from the State of New Mexico is critical for the program’s success and recognizes the importance of thorough teacher preparation to meet the demands of the teaching profession. Teacher Residency helps nontraditional students, students of color, single parents, and others complete their education without financial strain. There are currently no medical or retirement benefits available as part of the Teacher Residency Program. Residents are expected to teach in New Mexico for 3 years following the Teacher Residency.
Career Pathways and Job Placement
Graduating from our Teacher Residency Program means you’re not just earning a degree; you’re stepping into a career. The program, established by House Bill 13 in 2022, boasts strong partnerships with local schools and districts, providing excellent job placement opportunities. Teacher residents often are offered jobs in their placement schools or other nearby schools before they complete the Teacher Residency Program. Teacher Residency provides a year-long job interview and an opportunity for schools to help prepare their future teachers.
Community and Networking
Join a vibrant community of aspiring educators who share your passion for teaching. Participate in collaborative projects, attend professional development workshops, and engage in networking events that connect you with peers, faculty, and educational leaders.
Real Success Stories
Rachael Contreras, a 2023 graduate and now a kindergarten teacher at Los Lunas Elementary, shared, “Through the program, I was able to build confidence for my first year of teaching. The hands-on and in-person experience for a full year with students was extremely helpful.”
Branden Jaquemai, now teaching social studies at Gadsden High School, noted, “The residency taught me a lot of lessons, but the biggest one is getting to truly know your students and build relationships with each of them. It was truly an invaluable experience.”
Why Choose WNMU?
- Location: WNMU works with school districts throughout the state. Students can complete the Teacher Residency Program from a distance in public, charter, or tribal schools within New Mexico.
- Supportive Environment: Benefit from our small class sizes and personalized attention from faculty and staff.
- Innovation: Be part of a program that embraces innovation and continually adapts to the evolving educational landscape.
Start Your Journey Today
Your dream of becoming an impactful educator starts here. Apply now to join the Western New Mexico University Teacher Residency Program and take the first step towards a rewarding career in teaching.
Ready to Make a Difference?
Submit the form below to learn more about how to apply, program details, and start dates. Don’t miss the chance to shape the future – both yours and your students. Apply now and become a part of the WNMU teaching community!
Contacts
For more information please use the contacts or the form below
Email: Stephanie.Fanselow@wnmu.edu