What if you have all of the qualifications - the bachelor's degree, the fingerprint clearance card, the heart and passion to do what is good for kids... all the things that would qualify you for the Teacher Prep Program, you're just not sure that you are ready for a classroom of your own. You just might find that the Rise Track is the best first step for you. The Rise Track allows candidates to get some course work under their belt, build professional and instructional capacity, and work with students in a paraprofessional capacity.
The cornerstone of the track is classroom observation. Accompanied by an instructional coach, the candidate observes seasoned teachers with a specific and intentional focus. During the observation, the instructional coach will help the candidate identify, clarify, and solidify specific pedagogical skills of the cooperating teacher. While the Rise Track is a part of the Teacher Prep Program, candidates on this track are hired as paraprofessionals, allowing them to work with students and practice their skills before becoming the teacher of record in their own classroom.
Join the Cohort
Take classes with the rest of the cohort. Learn instructional skills and strategies and build a professional network of other educators.
Work with Students
As a paraprofessional, practice the skills that are learned in class to help support student learning. Complete a series of classroom-based observations with an instructional coach ending with an opportunity to complete a full instructional cycle.
Rise to the Head of the Class
Become the teacher in your own classroom!