The Traditional Residency is designed for folks who are new to the profession of teaching whether they are coming straight from an undergraduate program or changing careers entirely. In this pathway, a PEBC Traditional Resident is intentionally matched with a veteran mentor and learns alongside this mentor in his or her classroom for a year, slowly taking on more of the responsibilities of planning and teaching in the classroom. PEBC Residents are truly thought to be a second educator in the classroom and nurture invaluable skills in the presence of their mentor teachers. This 12 month program begins with a Summer Institute in July and concludes the following summer.
Program Highlights
- No prior teaching experience necessary
- Work alongside a mentor teacher in the classroom
- Eligible for scholarship which includes cash payout
- Must hold a bachelor’s degree
- Available statewide
- Consistent feedback through field coaching
- One year to program completion
- Option to pursue master’s degree
- Earn teacher license
- Access to 5 years of professional development from PEBC
Want to learn more? Register for a free info session »
Or you can give us a call at 303-861-8661 or email [email protected]
As a traditional resident, I have found the mentorship from my veteran mentor to be the most impactful and supportive element of the program. Her guidance in co-planning has been invaluable, from reading the textbook together to understanding the curriculum, watching educational instruction videos, and addressing students’ behavioral concerns. She also shares every email she receives from student counselors and principals regarding behavioral issues, providing insight into how to address and manage these concerns effectively. This holistic approach to mentorship, combining instructional strategies and behavioral management, has significantly enhanced my teaching skills and confidence. Additionally, observing and learning in the lab classrooms has provided practical insights into effective teaching strategies and student engagement techniques. The combination of hands-on experience and tailored mentorship has been instrumental in my growth as an educator.
Catherine Irudayam, Traditional Resident 24-25
Traditional Residency Program Timeline
Meet eligibility requirements
Have an undergraduate degree or international equivalent
Be able to live and work in Colorado
Have some experience leading or teaching groups of students (paraprofessional, substitute teacher, highly experienced camp counselor, etc.)
Submit a free application
Apply online here »
If you need help with your application, please email our admissions office at [email protected]
Meet with the PEBC Admissions team
Initial Meeting
A team member will clarify finances and next steps in a personalized one-on-one meeting.
Individual video interview
You'll prepare and answer questions about your experiences and desire to teach.
Final group interview
You'll connect with other candidates along with PEBC staff.
Accept offer and enroll in program
You'll sign a 3-year commitment to your school / district and pay the $500 program deposit (payment plans available)
Complete Praxis Exam or CDE endorsement worksheet
Elementary and ECE teachers need to pass a Praxis exam to show content proficiency.
Secondary teachers may be able to complete the CDE endorsement worksheet if your degree is in the subject you'll be teaching.
Collaborate to finalize school placement and mentor.
PEBC cannot guarantee placement in a certain school, but does use feedback from accepted residents to find a placement in their geographic region and content area dependent on available mentors.
Apply for Alternative License and ERR grant through CDE
You must apply for the ERR grant during the application window and after applying for your alternative or interim license.
Attend Summer Institute
Summer Institute takes place during July before the program.