Brentwood Union School District Teacher Residency Program
The Brentwood Union School District Teacher Residency Program offers an innovative pathway into teaching through a year-long classroom residency designed to prepare future educators for long-term success.
In partnership with Notre Dame de Namur University (NDNU), the program blends hands-on classroom experience with high-quality preparation. Residents become an integral part of the Brentwood Union School District (BUSD) school community-not just observing teaching, but actively co-teaching, learning and growing alongside students and colleagues-while working side-by-side with accomplished BUSD Mentor Teachers and completing credential coursework. Through this immersive experience, residents gain the confidence, skills, and support needed to thrive in today's classrooms.
Why Choose a Teacher Residency?
Teaching is learned best through sustained practice. The BUSD Teacher Residency Program replaces short-term student teaching with a full academic year of classroom immersion, allowing BUSD employees and community members to earn a Multiple Subject credential , Mild/Moderate Special Education credential, or a Extensive Special Education credential while experiencing the full scope of teaching-from the first day of school to year-end reflection.
Through structured co-teaching model, residents gradually assume instructional responsibility while receiving continuous mentorship and feedback in a supportive, collaborative environment.
What You'll Experience
Full-Year Classroom Residency- Residents are placed in one BUSD classroom for the entire year, building deep relationships with students and staff.
Residency Schedule and Coursework- Residents follow structured weekly schedule that blends coursework and classroom practice. All credential coursework is offered through NDNU and takes place at BUSD campus and online. Residents co-teach alongside their BUSD Mentor Teacher three days per week and may serve as substitute teacher two days per week, providing additional classroom experience and the opportunity to earn supplemental income.
Dedicated Mentor Support- Each resident is paired with a trained BUSD Mentor Teacher who provides coaching, guidance, and professional support throughout the year.
Credential Pathway through Notre Dame de Namur University (NDNU)
Residents earn a Preliminary Teaching Credential through NDNU, with pathway options that may include:
Multiple Subject
Mild/Moderate Support Needs
Extensive Support Needs
Financial Support
To reduce financial barriers and support access to the profession, residents receive a living stipend of $30,000 funded through grant funding, with the opportunity to earn additional income by substitute teaching two days per week.
In exchange, residents commit to teaching in their credential area for a designated period following program completion.
A Bridge to Employment
The Teacher Residency Program is more than preparation-it's a launch point. Residents are highly competitive candidates for full-time teaching positions within Brentwood Union School District.
Who Should Apply?
This program is ideal for individuals who are:
Current classified employees (Paraprofessionals and Aides)
Certificated substitutes
Those who have their Bachelor's degree and want to become a teacher
If you are interested in the program, please complete the BUSD Teacher Residency Program form
More information:
If you are interested in the Teacher Residency Program or like to learn other pathways to receive a teaching credential contact:
Emily Richards, Coordinator
erichards@brentwood.k12.ca.us