Why Texas Teaching Fellows?
Streamlined Certification Process
“I chose TTF because I could train to become a teacher through TTF’s rigorous training institute, and then apply what I learned immediately in my own classroom that Fall. It wouldn’t take years for me to become a teacher.”
-Austin Texas Teaching Fellow
Overview
Texas Teaching Fellows is a fast-track alternative certification program. Our program is specifically designed to transform outstanding professionals and recent graduates with no previous background in education into effective teachers within one year. Our innovative training allows us to provide streamlined preparation while maintaining our reputation for integrity, quality, and rigor.
Year at a glance
Fellows complete a six-step process to achieve standard Texas certification within one year:
1. Apply to TTF (October 14, 2009 – March 22, 2010) – Interested individuals begin the process by completing our online application. The application process includes the completion of the online application, the submission of the required application questions and a professional resume. Candidates receive step-by-step instructions throughout the application process. Once an applicant completes their application they will be notified if they have been invited to interview with TTF within two weeks of their application submission. Some subject areas fill quickly, and applications received for filled subject areas will not be reviewed.
2. Enroll in TTF (December 2009 – April 2010) - Once a Fellow is accepted into the program, they secure their place in TTF by paying a non-refundable enrollment fee of $199 and completing the required enrollment steps. This is the only fee required by TTF until a Fellow secures a teaching position.
3. Pass the required TExES content exams (January - June 2010) - All teacher candidates seeking certification in the state of Texas are required to demonstrate content mastery in the subject area in which they plan to teach and become certified. TTF provides support – such as online test prep webinars, self-guided study sessions, practice TExES exams, and study materials— to Fellows to aid them in passing these exams. We provide more information about these exams and the registration process on the TExES Exams page. All Fellows must pass the TExES prior to the start of Summer Institute.
4. Attend a six week summer training Institute (June - July 2010) - TTF’s summer training Institute ensures that Fellows enter the classroom feeling prepared to succeed through participation in a practice teaching component and curriculum sessions led by veteran teachers. Last year, 98% of Texas Teaching Fellows felt that the Institute prepared them as well as possible to enter the classroom.
5. Secure a teaching position. (March -September 2010) - A Fellow can begin his/her search for a full-time teaching position once the exam has been taken. For this reason, we encourage all candidates to apply as soon as possible: Those who are accepted into the program earlier will be able to take their exam earlier, and consequently, will be able to begin looking for employment earlier. Fellows cannot accept a teaching position until they have a passing score on the TExES.
6. Complete professional development series while teaching in appropriate content area (August 2010 – June 2011) - In order to be recommended for a Standard Certificate Fellows must:
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Successfully complete the Teaching for Results content seminars series
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Finish a full year of teaching in the same position
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Fulfill all tuition and testing requirements
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Remain in good standing with the program and their school district
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Receive a positive recommendation from their principal
Fellows will be recommended for their Standard Certificates when they have met all of the requirements above.
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