Boston Public Schools Launch Teacher Pipeline Programs

Empowering Future Educators

The Boston Public Schools (BPS) has initiated Teacher Pipeline programs aimed at supporting individuals aspiring to become educators, specifically focusing on English as a Second Language (ESL) and special education. These programs, established in 2018, seek to enhance the diversity of the teaching workforce within the district.

Programs Available

The BPS Teacher Pipeline comprises three key programs:

• Bilingual Educators/Accelerated Community to Teaching Program: This program provides coaching and preparation for provisional licensing tests. Fluency in another language is not a requirement.
• BPS Teaching Fellowship: This initiative helps candidates obtain advanced licenses to teach ESL and students with moderate disabilities.
• Bilingual Inclusive Education Teacher Residency: A four-to-five-year program that converts bilingual paraprofessionals or career changers into licensed BPS teachers with a specialization in bilingual education.

Notable Success Stories

Success stories, like that of Melvin Caballero, showcase the impact of these programs. Caballero, who emigrated from Honduras, is progressing towards licensure as a teacher after completing his education at Boston International High School and Bridgewater State University. He now works as a paraprofessional and is pursuing ESL certification to support students like himself.

Another participant, Phibe Pham-Smallwood, born to a Vietnam refugee, serves as a 4th-grade teacher and emphasizes the importance of understanding the diverse backgrounds of students. Both educators credit the pipeline for providing invaluable support and guidance as they navigate their teaching journeys.

Application Process

Interested individuals, including paraprofessionals or those looking to transition into education from different fields, can apply to the Teacher Pipeline Programs until April 11. More information and application details are available at teachboston.org.