Twelve aspiring new teachers have entered the classroom as members of the Project Inspire teacher residency, an innovative collaboration of the Public Education Foundation, Hamilton County Department of Education and Tennessee Technological University. Hannah Beker, Ella Bonah, William Budd, Katie Butler, Tiffany Corkran, Susie Everly, Liz Gibbons, Anne Holt, Kasi Quinn, Michael Romano, Scott Tunnell, and Jennifer Zellner have begun clinical apprenticeships at Tyner Academy, Tyner Middle, and Dalewood Middle School.
Project Inspire recruits accomplished college graduates, career changers, and experienced professionals to teach math and science in Hamilton County’s highest-need middle and high schools.
The rigorous fourteen month program combines an integrated graduate degree in education with an apprenticeship alongside a current Hamilton County teacher who exhibits best instructional practices and has a record of effectiveness. Graduates commit to teaching in Hamilton County for at least four more years, supported by ongoing coaching and professional development.
“The beginning of the school year is an exciting time for the residents. In addition to learning the content and craft of teaching, Project Inspire residents build relationships with students and develop a strong connection to their school communities. We are doing more than training new teachers; Project Inspire is part of a national movement that is elevating the teaching profession by using this rigorous, clinically-based model.” said Mark Neal, Project Inspire director.
After going through an intensive application process in the spring, residents began their graduate courses and new teacher training this summer. Several residents are new to Chattanooga and moved from out of state to join Project Inspire, and all possess the belief that strong public education is essential for a flourishing city.
“I started to desire more out of a job than just a paycheck,” says William Budd, formerly of Antioch, Il., who joined Project Inspire after a career as a geologist and environmental scientist. “I believe that STEM is the future for many exciting and rewarding career paths as our society moves forward. I would like to be an avenue to help educate, motivate, and support our future engineers and scientists. Chattanooga has a very productive future and it is my goal to help build a local workforce to fill those jobs.”
Project Inspire is currently recruiting aspiring teachers for the 2016-2017 cohort. The program seeks applicants who have a desire to become excellent math or science teachers at the secondary level in Hamilton County high-need schools. Applicants should possess a deep sense of educational equity and commitment to all children, as well as a bachelor’s degree with strong math or science content. Prospective applicants can learn more about teacher residency and apply online at
projectinspiretn.org.