What if I was hired late in the school year, is there a cut-off date to enroll in the Induction program?
The same process mentioned above will take place for any "late-hire" eligible candidate teacher. Each "late-hire" candidate teacher will be provided the same level of advice and assistance and support by the Induction Program Specialist. Options for enrollment into the Induction program will be provided to the eligible candidate and enrollment will be decided upon on a case by case basis. Regardless of the determination of enrollment in the induction program or not, site-based administrative and peer mentor support will be provided to the newly hired teacher for the rest of the school year in which they were hired.
I participated in Induction before but did not complete the program, what do I do?
Montebello Teacher Induction Program Specialist will work with all newly hired candidate teachers who have previously participated in induction, to help them transition from the previous induction program work to possible enrollment into MTIP with minimal disruption. Each candidate who has previous induction experience will be enrolled on a case-by-case basis. Please contact Angie Paz, Program Specialist with questions regarding your specific circumstances at paz_angelica@montebello.k12.ca.us or 323-887-7900 extension 2324.
How is the Montebello Teacher Induction Program (formerly BTSA) different from my university credential work?
University programs fall under the umbrella of teacher preparation and are considered the pre-service level of your career. At this stage, you have been exposed to introductory pedagogy and foundational educational theories as well as lesson plan development and assessments. MTIP is an induction program, predicated on the belief that teachers grow professionally as they embed inquiry into their practice, driven by the California Standards for the Teaching Profession and the student content standards (Common Core) in their subject areas.
What about the paperwork?
The induction standards call for emphasis on mentoring according to your individual learning needs. This means that documentation in the induction program has been significantly reduced. However, the CTC requires an Individual Learning Plan (ILP) in which you will still record evidence of having addressed the program standards. Your MTIP documentation tools are designed to function as a professional portfolio. Your mentor’s role is to support you in developing this portfolio, including concrete learning from classroom observations followed by reflective conversations. At the end of the year, you will have collected evidence that reflects your teaching practice.
How should I organize my documents?
All candidates will be required to use Google Classroom, allowing you to complete/upload your Individual Learning Plan (ILP), evidence for CSTP, and Continuum of Teaching Practice (CTP). Any evidence that you gather throughout the year will be submitted digitally through Google Classroom.
Why can’t I just teach? I am so busy, and MTIP is just one more extra thing to do!
This is an incredible time to be a teacher because of the complexity and dynamic nature of the job. MTIP is about setting goals for professional growth, designing lessons, examining and analyzing student work, reflecting on your instruction, and collaborating with colleagues. Developing your Individual Learning Plan (ILP) is a focus on teaching. The work you do with your mentor allows you to have support in your quest for excellence. Think of your experience in MTIP as an opportunity to pursue truly individualized and job-embedded professional growth.
What happens if my mentor and I don’t get along?
The relationship between the mentor and candidate is key to professional growth. If for any reason, the relationship between you and your mentor is strained, you will need to contact the Induction Program Specialist, Angie Paz to address concerns and find a resolution.
What do the induction program meetings include and why do I have to attend?
Induction meetings review the nuts and bolts of program requirements and activities. These meetings are also “networking” opportunities geared toward MTIP teachers on topics that relate to instructional strategies and induction program standards. Attendance is a requirement of our program, as important information is shared to support your progress and success. Absences will be addressed on an individual basis.
Are there any makeups for induction meetings?
Typically, there are no makeups for these meetings. If you cannot attend, please consult with another candidate or your mentor to request the information that was offered.
What is the ILP?
The ILP is your Individual Learning Plan. You will address the components of this plan throughout the induction process with your mentor and administrator. This is your opportunity to do action research on a focus area of your instructional practice, using resource materials from the Internet, professional learning opportunities, and collaboration with your colleagues and mentor, among other items. In your first year, you will do one inquiry and two during your second year (modifications apply according to your professional needs).
What is the colloquium and who attends?
The colloquium is a time for professional sharing, and is one of the best meetings that you will attend in the MTIP program. When you share your growth as a teacher at the colloquium, you are demonstrating your commitment to collaboration as a member of a learning community. Since you collaborate with other teachers in your content area, you are also likely to get some new ideas from your colleagues.
Can I complete MTIP early?
Yes, the program offers an Early Completion Option (ECO). If you meet the criteria described in the policy. Reference the Early Completion Option Information handout provided to at the orientation meeting, or see the ECO section of the MTIP handbook. The required documentation is due on September 30 of Year 2.
Can I get college credits for completing MTIP?
Yes, upon completion of the MTIP program and recommendation for the clear credential, you may apply to Whittier College for graduate credit.
What resources do I need to complete MTIP?
Our induction program uses research-based tools that support adult learning theory and inquiry. To self-monitor progress, a Continuum of Teacher Practice (CTP) is used to track evidence-based growth. The CSTP and content standards guide the framework of the Individual Learning Plan. In addition, the program provides access to district-sponsored professional learning sessions and resources, selected at the discretion of the teacher candidate with guidance from the mentor.
What happens if I am not finished in two years?
If you started MTIP and are unemployed full time because of budget cuts or non-reelect status, you may resume MTIP at the time you re-gain full employment as long as it is within the 5-year period. Illness, maternity leave, or extenuating circumstances on a case-by-case basis are considered for program extension.
Does MTIP have a grievance process?
The Montebello Teacher Induction Program (MTIP) is committed to supporting each participating teacher to successful completion of the program requirements within two years. All candidates are offered an appeal process if they disagree with the evaluation of submitted work; and/or disagree with the final recommendation related to the Induction Program completion.