Residency

We utilize a residency + 3 model. During the residency year, residents serve in a mentor teacher’s classroom while completing certification coursework with the option to pursue a Master’s degree. Following the residency year, they commit to teaching for three years in a partner school.

This model allows residents to gain substantial experience in the classroom before becoming a teacher of record. This rigorous program provides a gradual release into teaching responsibilities. EA staff support residents through coaching and testing support, so residents are fully certified by the end of the residency year.

One program – two tracks:
Certification Only or Master’s Degree + Certification

Our teacher residency program offers two tailored tracks: Certification Only or Master’s Degree + Certification. Whether you’re a recent graduate, career changer, or passionate about education, our program provides a pathway to teaching. Learn more about the residency tracks.

Is this a good fit for you? 

1. Are you a US resident (or permanent resident status) and looking to become a certified teacher?
2. Do you have a bachelor’s degree?
3. Do you have a Bachelor’s degree with a cumulative GPA of at least a 2.0.Note:
   • If pursuing the Master’s Degree + Certification track, the GPA requirement is a 2.4.
4. Are you ready to make a commitment to teach in KC schools?

Apply Now!

Fellowship

The Fellows Program is a one-year, on-the-job development and certification pathway, followed by an additional year of coaching and development. We work with school districts to ensure that experienced educators with significant teaching experience can get certified without leaving the classroom.

In contrast to the Residency, Fellows will immediately assume the role of lead teacher. As such, they will be employed by their school and earn a full salary and benefits while completing the Fellowship. Because of the increased level of responsibility that Fellows take on, they will be expected to meet additional criteria that Residents are not, including prior work experience in classrooms.

One program – two tracks:
Certification Only or Master’s Degree + Certification

Our fellowship program offers two tailored tracks: Certification Only or Master’s Degree + Certification. Explore your options and choose the fellowship track that best fits your needs. Learn more about the fellowship tracks.

Is this a good fit for you? 

1. Are you a US Resident (or permanent resident status) and looking to become a certified teacher?
2. Do you have a Bachelor’s degree?
3. Do you have a Bachelor’s degree with a cumulative GPA of at least a 2.0.Note:
   • If pursuing the Master’s Degree + Certification track, the GPA requirement is a 2.4.
4. Are you currently employed in an instructional role by one of our current partner schools? 
5. Will you have had at least 8 months of full-time instructional experience that includes lesson planning and building relationships with students and families by the time the program starts in June 2025?
   • If pursuing Elementary or Middle School certification, this experience must be as the lead teacher.
   • If pursuing Early Childhood Education certification, experience as a paraprofessional, instructional aide, or lead teacher is acceptable.
6. Are you ready to make a commitment to teach in KC schools?

Apply Now!

Mentor Teacher Program

Eligibility

1. Taught for 3+ years?
2. Ready to develop and influence a future teacher and share your classroom with them?
3. Interested for further professional development?
4. Looking for a stipend to your teacher salary?

Our mentor program might be a good fit for you! Our mentors host pre-service teachers in their classroom while also receiving development themselves and a stipend. Learn more about our mentor program and then submit your application!

Apply to be a Mentor!

Cooperating Teachers

Requirements

1. 3 year minimum teaching experience; have taught at your host school for +1 year
2. Certified in content area being taught
3. Committed to collaborating with a fellow for entire school year
4. Capacity and willingness to engage in consistent observation and MEES ratings with feedback and support of the fellow’s education and growth
5. Willingness to open their room for observations by the fellows

Need to learn more? Check out information about our cooperating teacher program.

Apply to be a cooperating teacher!