Program Overview

⚡ Fast Facts

• Established: Fall 1999

• Lead Agency: Palo Alto Unified School District

• Accreditation: CCTC (California Commission on Teacher Credentialing)

• Focus Areas: General Education & Special Education

• Outcome: California Professional Clear Credential

• Partner Districts:  

  • Mountain View-Los Altos HSD

  • Los Gatos-Saratoga Union HSD

Program Rationale

Beginning teachers need logistical, emotional and pedagogical support through their transition into the teaching profession. They have completed coursework and student teaching that prepare them for the many competencies required to be successful teachers and to meet the needs of diverse students. As they begin their teaching careers, working with a trained mentor can support the ongoing development of teaching skills, inquiry, reflective practices, and connection with their professional communities.  By engaging in goal setting, self-assessment and reflection, and pertinent professional learning activities, Participating Teachers (PTs) strengthen their teaching practice and increase their chance of developing into successful practitioners who will remain in the profession. The Individualized Learning Plan provides the framework for Participating Teachers to work towards mastery of the California Standards for the Teaching Profession (CSTPs). While every PT’s work focuses on the CSTPs, each teacher’s goals and specific action plans will differ according to their areas of strength and needs.  

Program Rationale

Beginning teachers need logistical, emotional and pedagogical support through their transition into the teaching profession. They have completed coursework and student teaching that prepare them for the many competencies required to be successful teachers and to meet the needs of diverse students. As they begin their teaching careers, working with a trained mentor can support the ongoing development of teaching skills, inquiry, reflective practices, and connection with their professional communities.  By engaging in goal setting, self-assessment and reflection, and pertinent professional learning activities, Participating Teachers (PTs) strengthen their teaching practice and increase their chance of developing into successful practitioners who will remain in the profession. The Individualized Learning Plan provides the framework for Participating Teachers to work towards mastery of the California Standards for the Teaching Profession (CSTPs). While every PT’s work focuses on the CSTPs, each teacher’s goals and specific action plans will differ according to their areas of strength and needs.