Human Resources - Beginning Teachers

Federal Way's Beginning Teacher Assistance Program provides essential support to new teachers during their first and second year of teaching. Our 2011-2012 Beginning Teacher Assistance Program won one of the five Washington Beginning Education Support Team Competitive Grants awarded to districts/consorts across the state. Grant proposals were evaluated on adherence to the Washington State Induction Standards, Professional Teaching Standards, and the 2010 Washington Legislation E2SSB 6696 teacher evaluation standards.

The grant has allowed BTAP to expand support to novice teachers from one year to two years. The program includes mentor partnerships, classes specifically designed for the novice teacher, and opportunities for professional dialogue through Professional Learning Communities.

BTAP Mentors learn and refine learning-focused skills at the OSPI Mentor Academy and Mentoring Matters Level II training to collaborate with teachers in developing their professional growth and effective teaching practices. They support partners in numerous ways: engaging in problem-solving and planning conferences, data collection, focused observations, and reflecting conversations. Partnerships are confidential and non-evaluative, a requirement of the RCW governing Beginning Education Support Team Grant.

From preparing for the first days of school, to focusing on effective teaching for optimal student learning, beginning teachers and mentors build a foundation for a successful school year.

"Most teacher preparation or college certification courses deal with the theory of teaching. It has been invaluable having the support of FWPS through the BTAP program which addresses the real craft of teaching and mentors new teachers with how to manage and proceed in our profession." - Year 1 Teacher