NATCHITOCHES – The Orchard Foundation, the education arm of the Rapides Foundation, is planning information sessions for interested applicants to learn more about the Central Louisiana Instructional Partnership (CLIP), a paid teacher residency program that develops middle school math and science teachers for high-needs schools in central Louisiana. Dates will be announced soon.

Northwestern State is a key partner in the CLIP program. Participants who complete the program receive a Master of Arts in Teaching degree and a professional teaching license, then teach middle school math or science in a high needs school.

“We bring them together as a group once a month and that is facilitated by faculty in the School of Education as well as the School of Business at NSU. We want to make sure they know not only the instructional strategies but that they also can implement them with appropriate technology,” said Dr. Kimberly McAlister, dean of NSU’s College of Education and Human Development.

Last year, eight individuals from central Louisiana completed the intense 15-month program and began their careers teaching. CLIP residents receive a stipend to cover the expense of tuition, as well as an annual stipend of $36,000 during their residency. While completing their graduate coursework, CLIP residents work alongside a trained and experienced mentor teacher throughout the academic year in a high-needs school identified by the nine partner public school districts. NSU trains the teachers in the school districts who mentor residents.

The second cohort, which began its work last June, consists of three men and seven women. Three residents are pursuing a concentration in science and the others are pursuing math.

Recruitment is currently underway for the third cohort, which will begin its work in June 2021.

Graduates are placed in a school where they receive two years of support with an induction coach. CLIP graduates agree to teach in Central Louisiana schools for at least three years following graduation.

Residents are men and women of all ages who hold undergraduate degrees and a desire to teach. Some residents are looking to change careers while others are recent college graduates, said Jennifer Cowley, CLIP Field Coordinator.

“Our residents are eager to learn,” she said. “We guide them through the process every step of the way and let them know that we will continue supporting them even after they graduate.”

Individuals who attend the informational meetings can learn more details and ask questions.  Cowley will be on hand to share the requirements of the program, the best steps to apply and other recommendations to assist individuals through the application process.

To qualify, applicants must have earned a bachelor’s degree, must not have a teacher certification and must meet Northwestern State University’s Master of Teaching graduate school requirements.

To apply for CLIP, interested persons should complete and submit the CLIP application, release form, essay and a current resume. Application should also be made to NSU’s graduate school. Interviews will be held in April.

Application forms and more details can be found at www.theorchardfoundation.org/clip.