Residency

Application and essays due by Sept. 9. Applicants chosen for interviews around Sept. 27. Selected applicants receive acceptance letter Nov. 1. Classes begin May 5.


For aspiring teachers with any Bachelor's degree

Combine your passion for our community and your existing Bachelor’s or advanced degree - in any field - to make a difference in the lives of students.

Become the head of your own classroom in just one year with the West Michigan Teacher Collaborative Residency program. To get there, you’ll spend a school year in a West Michigan classroom as a Resident Paraprofessional under the direction of a mentor teacher while also completing teaching-specific coursework through Grand Valley State University. You’ll receive:

  • all tuition, fees and books at no cost - paid for by West Michigan Teacher Collaborative
  • a salary from the school district
  • a stipend of up to $20,000

You'll finish the year with a teaching certificate and assistance securing a full-time teaching position as head of your own classroom for the following fall. 

Year 1

Once accepted into the Residency program, you’ll be enrolled with Grand Valley State University where you’ll complete one year of teaching-specific coursework at no cost to you. You’ll also receive a placement as a Resident Paraprofessional in a school district in Kent, Muskegon or Ottawa Area ISD for the 2024-2025 school year. As a Resident, you’ll participate in a professional and support network with other Residents, receive a paraprofessional salary from the district, plus a stipend of up to $20,000 from West Michigan Teacher Collaborative.

At the end of the year, you’ll earn your teaching certificate and you’ll be supported in securing a full-time Lead Teacher position for the following school year, ideally in the same district where you completed your residency year. 

Years 2 and 3

During years 2 and 3 of your Residency and as a Lead Teacher, you’ll continue to receive support from West Michigan Teacher Collaborative to help ensure your success. You’ll meet at least monthly with your WMTC Resident cohort formed in year 1 and Teacher Collaborative leaders for continued coaching, peer support and professional learning to help you become an effective beginning teacher.

At the end of Year 2, you’ll be eligible to participate in WMTC’s Endorsements & Advanced Degrees track to further your education and credentials should you choose to do so.

At the end of Year 3, your Residency will be complete. You’ll exit the program positioned for a successful career teaching and inspiring the future of West Michigan. You’ll also be eligible to rejoin West Michigan Teacher Collaborative as a Mentor and leader, helping to inspire and support the next cohort of excellent educators.

Not sure if this program is right for you? Contact us!