The four-year teacher residency program, available to candidates who graduate from an accredited teacher preparation program, provides Ohio’s educators with the coaching, mentoring, and guidance that are critical for long and successful careers as educators.  It is critical, therefore, that teacher leaders are in place to support teachers during their residency program.  To that end, the new Teacher Leader Endorsement will facilitate support of the teacher residency program in Ohio by preparing educators to serve as teacher leaders and employ skills of working with adult learners, facilitating and leading change, managing conflict, and coaching and mentoring teachers at all stages in their careers.  Additionally, teacher leaders will assist principals in developing and  supporting a shared vision and clear goals for schools and provide staff development, mentoring and coaching to teachers.

The three-course Teacher Leader sequence will be delivered through online courses to support the full-time working professional and to allow teachers to complete the endorsement without the added financial burden of numerous trips to campus.  Teachers will progress through the courses in a cohort format.

NOTE:  Courses for the endorsement may also be used for Master’s additional hours toward pay upgrade or licensure renewal.