Rural Teacher Residency Program (RTRP)

Your Path to Teaching

The Rural Teacher Residency Program is an intensive, hands-on pathway into teaching that integrates academic preparation with real classroom experience. From the very first day, Residents are active members of their school community, contributing to student learning while building their own skills as future educators.

This model blends rigorous coursework with a full-year classroom apprenticeship, ensuring residents are fully prepared to meet the needs of rural schools. Research shows that graduates of residency programs enter their first year of teaching with the skills and confidence of second-year teachers, accelerating their effectiveness and positively impacting student success.

Program Highlights:

• Financial Support: $35,000 forgivable loan
• Teaching Commitment: 4 years in a California public school
• Mentorship: Guided by experienced mentor teacher and university mentor/coach
• Professional Development: Access to district and FCSS PD
• Career Readiness: Targeted preparation for job applications and interviews to ensure Residents are competitive candidates
• Immersive Experience: Year-long, full-day placement to gain deep knowledge of classroom practice, school culture, and district expectations