Teach the child. Transform the future.

Earn your master's degree, complete a nationally recognized teacher preparation program, and achieve teacher certification without going into debt.

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If children are the future, so are their teachers.

We believe in recruiting, preparing, certifying, and supporting future educators through high-quality teacher education and teacher preparation experiences that lead to long-term success in the classroom. Our two-year Teacher Residency program provides graduate education, hands-on classroom experience, and continuing professional development to aspiring teachers—along with multiple financial supports to make achieving your goals more manageable.

Vision

Our vision is that every child in Arizona receives an outstanding education taught by a well-prepared teacher committed to the profession and the children they serve.

Mission

The Arizona Teacher Residency recruits, prepares, certifies, and supports future teachers through a high-quality teacher education program, registered teacher apprenticeship, and ongoing professional learning designed to strengthen teacher effectiveness and retention.

Here's how the program works.

Aspiring teachers enter a two-year graduate teacher education program that includes a classroom apprenticeship under the guidance of a Supervising Teacher. Upon completion, residents earn their master’s degree, complete teacher certification requirements, and work as the teacher-of-record at a partnering district for at least two additional years. All without going into debt.

LEARN MORE ABOUT THE ARIZONA TEACHER RESIDENCY PROGRAM

It’s very challenging to work and go to school and be a teacher resident. Having that burden off financially is a big advantage in my learning process.

Aldith McConney, Teacher Resident

Former Substitute Teacher Test

There’s a lot of great ways to come into education, but this residency program really primes people to be their best selves so that they can help students be their best selves.

Chelsey Mickelson, Teacher Resident

Former Classroom Assistant

I’m not just thrown into the classroom where it’s an either-sink-or-swim kind of feeling,

Alyscia Etsitty, Teacher Resident

Former Instructional Assistant

I'm so glad I joined AZTR because it's led me to my true purpose in life. I've never done more rewarding work. The relationships I have already fostered with the community, my students and the other residents are the absolute best part; I know I've met people who will continue to enrich my life for as long as I live.

Grace Brock, Teacher Resident

Aspiring teachers need support. That's where we come in.

If you qualify for Arizona Teachers Academy funding, as most of our residents do, your tuition for the degree is covered.* Plus as a teacher resident, you’ll receive a living stipend, healthcare, and books while you apprentice in schools. Residents also have early access to full-time jobs in partner districts after the first year.

Financial support is just the beginning. Review eligibility and benefits to explore the extensive preparation, professional support, and ongoing opportunities available to teacher residents.

Already a teacher? Become a mentor.

As a Supervising Teacher in one of our partner districts, you’ll mentor and help mold future teachers —all while getting a $2,000 stipend, meaningful professional development, and assistance in your classroom. Learn more about what it means to be a Supervising Teacher, including eligibility and benefits.

Recent grad? Looking to change careers?

Prepare for a profession in teaching without going into debt.

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