Being a Fellow

Ongoing Resources

Professional Development

All Fellows are required to attend New Teacher Orientation with IPS. New Teacher Orientation provides all new teachers with very specific information about teaching in IPS. During Orientation, Fellows are introduced to representatives from key departments and provided information on the school district culture, initiatives and goals for the coming school year.

A new teacher’s first year is particularly challenging, and Teaching Fellows should anticipate long hours and intense effort, especially during the first semester. Because Fellows work in schools that often have limited resources, candidates are chosen for their ability to solve problems creatively and independently—an important factor in their success. Throughout the school year, Fellows are invited to professional development workshops that are hosted by various divisions within the school district. These workshops are aimed at improving instructional strategies and addressing the needs of all students.

Teaching Fellows Program Administration

The Teaching Fellows office assists with logistical support, such as helping Fellows to manage the process of becoming district employees, and keeping them informed through periodic program emails messages and newsletters. Fellows will also attend monthly ITF professional development sessions. Additionally, Fellows may have the opportunity to attend special events and social gatherings throughout the year.

However, the Fellows program office is not intended to provide comprehensive ongoing classroom support. Most teachers prefer to draw upon support and resources within their school buildings. Although every situation is different, Fellows may collaborate with co-teachers at their school, district instructional coaches, assistant principals, principals or a grade- or subject-level team.

Fellows often find that the most important avenue of ongoing support comes from both within their school community and from other Fellows who are experiencing similar successes and struggles. Summer training events will facilitate connections among Fellows who will be teaching the same subject areas. New Fellows can draw on these connections as a resource for planning, reflection, and shared encouragement as they strive for excellence in their individual classrooms.