Relationship to KConnect
Cross-Cutting Workgroup: Diverse Educators Success Measure: Career Readiness, Thriving Family Income Approach: Creative. Courageous.
Our Mission
West Michigan Teacher Collaborative exists to ensure all students in Kent, Muskegon, and Ottawa Area ISDs have excellent teachers. We seek to be a model of high-quality educator preparation in the region, and to create a community of highly-skilled educators who reflect the diversity of our students. We believe great teachers can dramatically impact the lives of students, families, and the communities they serve.
Our Approach
West Michigan Teacher Collaborative lowers the bureaucratic and financial barriers to the teaching profession while maintaining high standards for teacher preparation and quality. Our candidates participate in a rigorous selection process designed to identify their potential to accelerate learning and their passion for serving students and families. Once selected, candidates receive full-time employment opportunities during their certification process, free coursework, living stipends, and a community of support to help them navigate the challenges of transitioning into the profession. We partner with Grand Valley State University for all required coursework and classes using a hybrid model of in-person and online instruction. All learning experiences are designed to develop the knowledge, skills, and mindsets needed to be an effective teacher.
We offer three programs to support educators at different entry points. Our Pre-Residency is for candidates who are still working to complete a bachelor’s degree before pursuing their teaching certificate. Our Residency program is for candidates with a bachelor’s degree, who are pursuing an initial teaching certificate. Finally, our Advanced Degree track is for current teachers who are looking to enhance their leadership and practice through a master’s degree.
Website
You can learn more about each of our programs at teachwestmichigan.org.