Superintendent Arntzen Announces Professional Learning Opportunities for Aspiring Educators and Mentor Teachers

• Brian O'Leary
• November 14 2024

HELENA – Superintendent Arntzen is excited to announce two new professional development opportunities aimed at enhancing the skills of both resident teachers and their experienced teacher mentors as part of the Montana Teacher Residency Program. During the 2023 legislative session, HB 833 established funding for the Residency program to strengthen teacher recruitment and retention in Montana. The Residency program provides learning labs throughout the year-long student teaching experience, intended to bolster and support students’ preparations for entering the teaching workforce.

“The Teacher Residency program prepares student teachers for a successful first year in the classroom,” said Superintendent Elsie Arntzen. “High quality educators help our students achieve academic excellence. The Residency program is a Montana made program that focuses on strengthening teaching and learning on our public schools.”

In October, resident teachers participated in a learning lab focused on Universal Design for Learning (UDL) to create flexible learning environments that address the unique needs of every student. UDL is an educational framework that encourages teachers to present information in various ways, allowing students to engage and express their knowledge through multiple approaches. By exploring UDL strategies in the learning lab, residents gained valuable insights into tailoring their teaching methods to support all learners, setting them up for long-term success in the classroom.

On November 13, lead teachers, who play a crucial role in mentoring and supporting Residents during their student teaching experience, participated in a professional learning session that focuses on teaching through the lens of inquiry. This training emphasizes encouraging students to ask questions, explore new ideas, and develop critical thinking skills. By equipping lead teachers with the skills to foster an inquiry-based approach, the program aims to support them in cultivating classrooms where curiosity drives learning, and students feel empowered to take ownership of their education.

Currently, 23 Montana teacher residents are engaging in a full-year, hands-on teaching experience under the guidance of their dedicated lead teachers. This unique model offers resident teachers the chance to build confidence, gain practical skills, and deepen their understanding of instructional best practices all while experiencing a full year of leading students and managing a classroom. With financial support and professional development opportunities, the program is an essential component of Montana's strategy to retain quality teachers and improve educational outcomes statewide.

For more information, please contact Krystal Smith, Operations Manager, at krystal.smith@mt.gov.