The program begins in the spring, and by the fall of their first year, RPCVs work as full-time teachers while continuing their master s degree program. The first year begins in July with two university courses and a school system workshop. From September to June, the participants in this partnership are hired by MCPS as substitute teachers and assigned to specific schools while they continue their coursework. The second summer includes two more courses and special training opportunities. In the fall of the second year, participants fill regular teaching vacancies for one year as Teaching Fellows and receive ongoing coaching by an MCPS master teaching in their subject field.
Coursework continues during the year.
Candidates achieve teacher certification in December of the second year upon successful completion of their courses and the teaching experience. If all program requirements are fulfilled, and dependent upon performance and budget considerations, the Teaching Fellow may be promoted in the second semester of the teaching fellow year to a full salary and benefits package. The costs of a majority of the university courses required for teaching certification are funded by the program, and some provided at reduced fees. Additional financial support includes a monthly stipend for the first academic year and a salary as a Teaching Fellow at the long-term substitute rate for the following school year. Of course, the financial benefits are even greater if The Fellow is promoted for the second semester.