School of Education Partners with Dallas ISD for First Teacher Residency Program

UNT Dallas, in a landmark partnership with the Dallas Independent School District (Dallas ISD), is launching its first-ever Teacher Residency Program. Five university seniors, all education majors, will be paid to teach for the entire Dallas ISD 2024-25 school year, a testament to the strength and significance of this collaboration.

“It is so exciting to be able to go into a classroom. Ultimately, I know that through this program, I will gain invaluable experience that will help me in my career,” said Valerie Castaneda, one of the five students chosen for the program.

The novel arrangement between the UNT Dallas School of Education and Dallas ISD builds on an existing relationship to prepare university students for real-world situations so they are career-ready upon graduation. It also serves as a recruitment tool for Dallas ISD, helping to build a pipeline of future educators.

“We are thrilled to bring this opportunity to the students at UNT Dallas. The research indicates that candidates who complete a residency-type clinical experience drive increased teacher retention and student learning,” said Dr. Christine Remley, Dean of the UNT Dallas School of Education. “The district, the student teachers, and most importantly, the students will benefit from this arrangement.”

The UNT Dallas Teacher Residency Program is a pilot for what university leaders hope will eventually be recognized by the Texas Education Agency (TEA) once all requirements are met. The TEA has specific guidelines for vetting and approving teacher residency programs throughout the state.

Historically, student teachers have been underpaid or not paid at all. But this program is different. The UNT Dallas-Dallas ISD student teachers will be compensated $30,000 for the school year and receive full benefits. They will also contribute to the Teacher Retirement System of Texas, getting an early start on participation in the 401(a) defined benefit plan.

The five UNT Dallas School of Education seniors who applied and were accepted into the program will begin work on Aug. 1, when Dallas teachers start the new school year with professional development and preparation days. Classes will begin Aug. 12.

“My reason for applying for the residency program is to become better equipped to enter my first year of teaching,” said Tamera Harris, another member of the inaugural cohort of student teachers. “To learn how to create a safe space for students to grow, express themselves, and develop confidence in their abilities.”

Three will teach kindergarten through second grade at Cochran Elementary School in west Oak Cliff, and two at Maple Lawn Elementary School in northwest Dallas. They will teach multiple subjects in bilingual and ESL classes.

“These students have been preparing through coursework and early fieldwork and are ready to dive into classroom teaching. Under the guidance of their mentor teachers, they will begin by slowly taking over classroom instruction, all while being observed by a field supervisor assigned through my office,” said Emily Waneck, Director of Clinical Practice at the UNT Dallas School of Education. “I am excited to see their growth throughout this next school year and to partner with Cochran and Maple Lawn Elementary Schools as our residency sites as we expand our relationship with Dallas ISD.”

The school district budgeted for this program through its Strategic Staffing Model, which was supported by Sandra Baptista, Dallas ISD Student Teacher and Special Initiatives Coordinator.

“I hope to learn many new skills that will be beneficial to me as I become a teacher and gain great connections and collaborate with other teachers and administrators,” said Marlene Tello Fabian. “I also hope to learn about diversity in schools and how to effectively build a connection with each student to provide them with a positive environment to learn and be successful.”

In addition to the five students working in the Dallas ISD residency program, four others will teach for one semester at Red Oak ISD as part of a separate cooperative agreement with UNT Dallas. They will also be paid.

These teaching assignments are part of the School of Education’s updated curriculum. Unlike many North Texas colleges and universities, UNT Dallas requires students seeking a Bachelor of Science in Education (with initial teacher certification) to pass all state-mandated certification exams in order to participate in their clinical experiences. Numerous resources, including workshops and boot camps, are provided to support students and ensure they are prepared for the tests.

“I hope to leave the Dallas ISD Teacher Residency Program feeling more confident and prepared for my first year of solo teaching. I believe the best way to learn is through hands-on experience, so I am excited to finally be in the field, applying what I have learned in my classes, said Kenedi Barbre.

Coincidentally, Dallas ISD will hold a job fair for aspiring and current teachers from 4 - 6 p.m. on Thursday, August 8, at Pinkston High School. If you would like to apply for a Dallas ISD teaching position, click here.