"The residency program has been an incredible experience as it has given me several opportunities to grow as an educator. I am grateful to have worked with such a skilled and experienced cooperating teacher who has taught me so much in preparation for my own classroom. In addition to her advice and instruction, she has given me opportunities to build a rapport with students and teach them in a meaningful way. My time in this classroom has contributed to my passion for special education. Julie has modeled the importance of caring for students, advocating for students, and preparing them for life experiences. It has been such a pleasure to work alongside her throughout this year. I am grateful for the learning opportunities that I have been provided with in this program, and I am fortunate to have a mentor in Julie even as I continue my career after this year."
- Kayla Cota (class of 2018)
"The Salinas Residency Program has supported me immensely throughout my journey of becoming a high school math teacher. Not only have I been supported financially, but also with opportunities to grow as an educator. My cooperating teacher, Mr. Golub, has done an astonishing job at ‘showing me the ropes’ of teaching and has given me all the necessary tools to succeed in the career of teaching. Being able to build rapport with students is a foundational
skill that all teachers need in order to truly teach their students. In addition to growing as an educator, I have grown as a person. My students have shared their culture, community, and personal lives with me; they’ve shown me that it is possible to overcome any circumstance and that all it takes is desire. I firmly believe that without the Salinas Residency Program, my experience during my student teaching would not have been remotely the same. I know, without a doubt, that I have a school district that believes in me and the potential that I hold."
-Cassidy Byrne (class of 2024)