An alternative pathway to teacher certification for aspiring educators.
Earn a Masters degree and income while becoming a credentialed Special Education teacher
As a Resident Teacher, you will undergo a school year of clinical teaching experience alongside an education specialist teacher mentor (mild-moderate). You will gain valuable classroom experience and mentorship toward the transition to a full-time teacher. During the paid residency program, you will earn a MAT in Curriculum and Instruction with Dual Credentials through coursework rooted in inclusive and culturally sustaining pedagogy. Upon successful completion of the residency program, you are prioritized to be hired by the district.
The residency model is design to attract and retain a diverse cohort of aspiring Special Education teachers dedicated to San Diego Unified Schools.
18
Months to complete
Eligible to apply for the Golden State Teacher Grant
Work full-time in the San Diego Unified Schools for an academic year
Preparing the Next Generation of Diverse and Inclusive Educators
San Diego Unified welcomed the inaugural cohort of teacher residents to the district, officially launching the Teacher Residency Program in 2024. The USD Resident educators from cohort 3 will each be paired with a mentor teacher to co-teach in a classroom for the entire 2026-27 school year.
Making an immediate positive impact on your students.
- What is the SDUSD teacher residency?
- Why is Teacher Diversity Important?
- Why should I apply?
The residency program is designed to increase the diversity of educators in the San Diego Unified School District. Through co-teaching experiences, residents will build a professional teaching practice that focuses on special education (mild-moderate support needs) while earning a credential in a general education content area (e.g. Multiple Subjects or Single Subjects English, Science, Math, Social Science). The residency program gives candidates committed to social and racial justice a pathway to employment by reducing financial barriers and guaranteeing employment. The paid Residency ensures mentorship for a whole academic year in support of developing culturally sustaining pedagogy, equity consciousness, and inclusive teaching approaches.
Application Deadline
The application deadline for the 2026 cohort 3 was Friday, Feb. 27, 2026.
Take the Next Step
Ready to Get Started?
Your future as a Changemaker starts here. Learn more about SOLES or start your application today.