Investigating Ways to Improve Teacher Quality in Public Education Through a Teacher Residency Program

• In Event: Preparing and Supporting Teachers Working With Specific Diverse Populations

Abstract

This research study examined the long-term impact of a residency program designed to address the critical shortage of high quality teachers in special education, particularly in high-poverty urban schools. Specifically, the study examined the effectiveness of a residency model in the recruitment, preparation and retention of special education teachers for a large urban school district. Findings show strong support for residency programs in improving the quantity and quality of teachers in urban schools. However, they suggest that significant investment is needed to support residents and to facilitate program coordination, selection and mentor training. With resources, residency programs show great promise in addressing the inequities in public education and the persistent shortages of fully credentialed teachers in special education.

Authors

• Nancy D. Burstein, California State University - Northridge

• Sue Sears, California State University - Northridge

• Anne Wilcoxen, California State University - Northridge