In partnership with Marian University’s Fred S. Klipsch Educators College (KEC), Educate ME Foundation is proud to launch the Fall 2023 cohort of the Black Teacher Residency (BTR) application. This initiative is the culmination of years of planning, insights from the National Center on Teacher Residencies, and the expertise of KEC leaders experienced in teacher certification pathways. Educate ME Foundation has diligently worked throughout Indianapolis for the past eight years, increasing the number of black and brown educators and thus cultivating a supportive community that enters and remains in the teaching workforce.
According to the Tribune-Star, “Nearly 95% of the surveyed superintendent respondents indicate a shortage in qualified candidates for certified positions.”
Thoughtful leaders at Marian University’s Klipsch Educators College, Dr. LaTonya Turner, Dean and Marlon Llewellyn, the Director of Recruitment and Strategic Partnerships, understand that the Indiana teacher shortage requires innovative and creative solutions that put the increasingly diverse children at the forefront. According to NCES, 95.2% of teachers in Indiana are White (non-Hispanic), while fewer than 3% identify as Black/ African-American. The Indianapolis Public Schools (IPS) district has a Black student population of over 40% and a White student population of under 22%. Although nearly half of the students served are Black, approximately 84% of Marion County teachers are White. This dramatic disparity has far-reaching effects on all students' exposure to diversity. Representation matters, and as we grow in our understanding of equity, it is critical that our education system reflect inclusive leadership. Increasing the number of qualified and certified teachers is a priority, and along with the diversification of the education workforce, this can be accomplished. The Black Teacher Residency is an example of an innovative and creative way to solve two challenges with one solution.
At a time when policy and district leaders continue to discuss teacher pay and teacher retention incentives, Blake Nathan avoids the bureaucracy and introduce supplemental supports that can quickly introduce positive change for Indianapolis student. The Black Teacher Residency will offer various wraparound services that we are excited to pilot to aspiring teachers because we believe long-term, highly invested educators do not simply exist by chance; they must be cultivated.
Candidates accepted to the 2023 Black Teacher Residency cohort will receive the following:
● A full tuition scholarship to Marian University’s graduate program.
● A full-time teaching assistant position at an Indianapolis K-12 school with salary and benefits.
● A voucher for certification test prep.
● A voucher for the certification exam fee.
● A grant to cover the cost of classroom supplies.
● Eligible candidates may also apply for up to $5,000 toward the down payment for an Indianapolis home through
the Educate ME home ownership assistance program.
Attracting qualified, passionate teachers require, we elevate the position to the level in a way that is not reflected in current teacher pay scales. Teachers are sacrificial servants, role models, and a significant influence on the next generation. The black teacher residency application for the fall of 2023 is available now, and we encourage aspiring teachers to apply. You can review the application questions here. The partnership was also featured on Indianapolis television station WISH-TV 8. View the story here.
Email Marian University Recruitment and Strategic Partnerships Director Marlon Llewellyn for questions.
