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 School of Education is proud to offer a Teacher Residency Program that allows you to earn $35,000 for a yearlong guided apprenticeship. This unique opportunity enables you to work alongside mentor educators, gaining invaluable hands-on experience while finishing your coursework.

Hands-On Teaching Experience

Dive into the heart of teaching with our immersive residency program. From day one, in the fall semester, you’ll be placed directly in a classroom, working alongside experienced mentor teachers in New Mexican public or tribal schools for a full academic year. 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 resident teachers 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 $35,000 stipend for teacher residents and $1,000 to each semester for the mentor teacher to compensate for their time and effort. Additionally, participating school principals receive $1,000 for their administrative support each semester. This financial package is critical to the program’s success, helping nontraditional students, students of color, and single parents complete their education without financial strain.

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. All 24 student teachers who graduated in the spring of 2023 are currently working in New Mexico schools, with 23 in full-time teaching positions.

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: Experience the beauty and culture of New Mexico while studying at our picturesque campus.
• 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
Phone: 575-538-6412