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Teaching Residency
Resident Teacher Reflections
Immaculate Mbolle - NDMU Special Education Dual Certification Program
The Residency Program has strengthened my confidence, instructional skills, and ability to support diverse learners through meaningful PET training, collaboration, and continuous professional learning. Connecting with cohort members provided a valuable support network and opportunities to learn from different perspectives. Researching topics and presenting to peers also challenged me to grow beyond my comfort zone and strengthen my communication skills. My advice to future Residents is to remain open to learning, ask questions, build relationships, and take full advantage of every training and networking opportunity.
Alondra Gonzalez Cruz - ESOL Education Program
The Residency experience has been both exhilarating and humbling, providing real-time opportunities to grow through full classroom ownership, reflection, and adaptability. The program has deepened my understanding that effective teaching is not about delivering a perfect lesson, but about creating responsive learning environments where students are engaged, think critically, and feel safe taking academic risks. Building a strong support network within the school and the Resident Teacher cohort has been invaluable, as has learning the importance of boundaries and self-care. One of the most memorable parts of the experience has been connecting with inspiring fellow Residents who share a commitment to making a positive difference for students.
Danita Elkerson - (ESOL) Ellen Ochoa MS
During the Pre-Employment phase of the program, a memorable moment for me was hearing principals from various schools share their advice and experiences with the Resident Teachers. One story that particularly stood out was about a student who faced many challenges in middle school. The principal continued to encourage her, always reminding her that she could do better and reach her potential. Years later, in 11th grade, the student remembered those words and made positive changes in her life. Today, she is a mother and successfully operates two businesses.
That story was very heartwarming and reminded me of the lasting impact educators can have on their students. It reinforced the importance of believing in our students, encouraging them even when they are struggling, and never giving up on them.
Jared Sawyerr - Elementary Education Program
The Residency Program has provided a supportive community that made the transition into teaching feel possible and achievable. Through the program, I gained valuable tools for classroom management, lesson planning, and building strong relationships with students. One of my most memorable achievements was receiving my first teaching job offer after making connections with principals during a Principal Connections session. My advice to future Residents is to trust the process, remain open to each step, and take full advantage of the support and networking opportunities available.
Oluwakemi Ayodele - (ESOL) Judge S. Woods ES
PET helped me understand that the way we respond to students' background and culture can influence them both negatively and positively. And that their background/ culture should be treated as an asset and not a hindrance. Another important take-away for me was during the ELD class there was a statement that academic language is the language of power. This was memorable because it made me realize how important it is to help our students understand content material and bridge the gap between their knowledge and state standards.
Contact Information
Dr. LaChon Winston
Alternative Teaching Pathways Liaison (Resident Teacher Program)