Early Learning Foundation Teacher Preparation Pathway: Evaluating a Bridge Induction Program

• In Event: Teacher Pathways: Lessons Learned and Insights for the Future

Abstract

The purpose is to describe an innovative Urban Teacher Fellowship (UTF) teacher preparation pathway for elementary school teachers, specifically examining its unique induction program. UTF is a cohort model pathway that recruits urban low-income high school students interested in the teaching profession. Each cohort is assigned a Student Support Specialist (SS) who provides assistance in navigating the transition to college. A course instructor and the SS facilitate a nine-week induction program that integrates college readiness skills, teaching experiences, and cohort team building activities. Three cohorts of UTF students completed a questionnaire regarding the purpose, benefits, and helpfulness of the program. During the presentation, we share the 65 respondents’ answers and explain the significance of the findings for teacher preparation.

Authors

• Ruth A. Piker, California State University - Long Beach

• Sue Parsons, Cerritos College

• Nancy Le, Cerritos College