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Inspired Teacher Certification Program website

The Inspired Teacher Certification Program is a state-accredited, 24-month teacher preparation program that prepares, supports, and certifies highly qualified individuals to become teachers in the District of Columbia. Inspired Teaching Fellows begin their teacher career with a residency year, working under the guidance of a lead teacher, gaining knowledge and experience to enable a smooth transition into their teaching career. In the second year, Fellows, as teachers of record, continue with coursework and mentoring. The Inspired Teacher Certification Program prepares educators in two areas: Early Childhood and Elementary Education.

Program Highlights:

  • During the residency year, Fellows work in the same classroom with an experienced lead teacher, observing quality teaching in action and being part of a reflective partnership with another educator.
  • Fellows participate in an intensive training program, engaging in coherent, integrated coursework grounded in a researched-based philosophy of teaching and learning.
  • Mentors meet with Fellows weekly, observing their classrooms, and offer constructive feedback, coaching, and personal support.
  • Residents work in an innovative urban school that is dedicated to supporting new teachers, becoming immersed in best teaching practices.
Application Requirements: 

The Center for Inspired Teaching selects teacher candidates who can advance educational reform in their classrooms, schools, and beyond. The selection process evaluates beliefs, skills, and accomplishments in the following areas:

  • Willingness to embrace teaching and nurturing the whole child
  • Potential for leadership in and beyond the classroom
  • Holistic, asset-based approach to problem solving
  • Commitment to reflective practice
  • Commitment to the teaching profession
  • Inspired mindset

Eligible Candidates must have:

  • Bachelor's degree
  • Eligibility to work in the United States
  • Minimum GPA: recent college graduates (less than 5 years of work experience): On a 4.0 scale, 3.0 GPA OR 3.25 in the major area; if more than 5 years' work experience, 2.75 GPA
  • Candidates must have passed the Praxis I and II tests.
Benefits: 
  • During the Residency Year, Fellows are compensated an annual salary of $25,000 plus benefits. In the Fellowship Year, teachers are compensated by their school of placement, and receive the same salaries and benefits as other full-time teachers.
  • A small financial stipend is provided to Fellows for both Summer Experiences, contingent on attendance at all summer sessions.
  • Tuition for the 24-month Inspired Teacher Certification Program is $22,000, which is awarded to all Fellows through a loan from the Center for Inspired Teaching. Inspired Teaching will provide loan forgiveness for the entire loan amount to teachers who successfully complete the 24-month program.
  • Fellows are eligible to enroll for AmeriCorps benefits and may receive a $5,550 education award from AmeriCorps at the completion of their first year. In addition, Inspired Teaching Fellows are eligible for student loan deferment through their AmeriCorps membership.