Secondary Education Certification Program (Grades 6-12)

This 2 year program of study is designed to best support DVUSD educators while meeting the Arizona Department of Education (ADE) requirements for a 6–12 Classroom-Based Certificate. Candidates must also demonstrate content proficiency to be eligible for admission.  

Program of Study

Because teachers in this program have already demonstrated content proficiency, the coursework provided is focused on pedagogy and management strategies geared specifically for teachers of adolescents through a mixed model of both in-person and asynchronous online course work.  

Year 1 of the secondary program of study focuses on building foundational skills for effective teaching of adolescents. Educators explore curriculum resources, essential standards, and develop classroom discipline models to support student behavior and engagement. They study instructional design and lesson planning grounded in teaching and learning theories linked to adolescent development. Field observations emphasize classroom management and professionalism. The program includes deep exploration of adolescent brain development and its impact on learning, guiding instructors to tailor instruction accordingly. Teachers also develop comprehensive behavior management plans with strategies for prevention and de-escalation. Finally, they gain an overview of exceptional learners, focusing on current practices, identification, and necessary educational adaptations. Throughout, educators apply their learning into their own teaching experience and reflect on their instructional impact.

Year 2 of the secondary program of study enhances teachers’ discipline-specific instructional skills and deepens their understanding of assessment to guide instruction. Educators explore effective teaching strategies, learning environments, resources, and technology integration. They examine various assessment types and learn to use CFAs to support MTSS and RTI processes. The program includes a focus on professional ethics, guiding teachers through ethical practice and career development. A key component is differentiated reading instruction, where teachers develop research-based strategies for assessment, remediation, and support of diverse learners, including students with dyslexia. Throughout the year, educators apply and reflect on their practice during an extended student teaching experience.

The secondary program wraps up with a capstone project where teachers record themselves teaching a lesson. This isn’t about creating a perfect video where everything goes exactly as planned — it’s about capturing real teaching moments and the many decisions made throughout a class. Teachers reflect on what choices were made, why they were made, and how understanding of students, content, and curriculum influenced the instruction. This reflection helps identify strengths, connect with teaching philosophies, and highlight areas for growth. It’s a valuable opportunity to learn from one’s own practice and take teaching to the next level.

Elementary Education Certification Program (Grades K-8)

We have created a program of study for this cohort that best supports DVUSD educators, and meets Arizona Department of Education (ADE) certification requirements for a K-8 Classroom-Based Certificate.

With two semesters of content methods, two semesters of reading instruction, and asynchronous courses throughout this 2 year program, new educators are provided more than 200 hours of professional development.  

Program Overview

This program of study prepares elementary teachers with the knowledge, skills, and hands-on experience to thrive in today’s classrooms. Through a spiraled hybrid approach, candidates develop strong instructional design and classroom management skills, with a focus on high yield strategies, student engagement, and developmentally appropriate practice.

Reading instruction is delivered across two semesters, beginning with the Science of Reading and Systematic Phonics, and progressing to Differentiated Strategies for Assessment and Remediation, including support for students with dyslexia. Additional coursework covers methods of teach ELA, mathematics, science, social studies, fine arts, and strategies for working with exceptional students. Candidates also learn to design and implement assessments, including CFAs, to support MTSS and RTI processes, and to integrate technology to create effective, engaging learning environments.

The final capstone project challenges teachers to record themselves teaching a lesson that demonstrates effective instruction, behavior management, student engagement, and instructional decision-making. Through structured self-reflection and analysis of their recorded lesson, teachers deepen their understanding of their instructional practice and refine their professional skills.

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 in whichever certification pathway you choose.  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!

To apply for the TPP Rise Track, please complete this application