Urban Teacher Education Program (UTEP)
Mission
The mission of the Urban Teacher Education Program is to prepare teachers for successful and long-lasting careers in urban schools. Offering individualized instructional coaching and utilizing a cohort model for professional development and continued education, we are developing a reflective, critical, and supportive network of early career teachers and experienced teacher leaders.
Vision
We believe that the holistic development of new teachers will help them navigate the challenges of teaching and lead to greater longevity and impact.
The core values of the Urban Teacher Education Program are grounded in a defensible, sustainable vision for urban public education that is informed by the following principles
Teaching and learning occur in dialogue with others including youths, families, communities, and colleagues.
Learners acquire knowledge and skills by tapping multiple strengths and by engaging in a collaborative process of discovery with their teachers.
Teachers and learners rigorously question themselves, their practice, and the world around them to facilitate development.
Learning, learning how to learn, and learning how to teach well are lifelong endeavors.
UTEP in Action
UTEP supports early-career Chicago teachers with individualized coaching, tailored professional development, and a collaborative cohort model, helping them navigate urban education and succeed long-term in their profession
UTEP stands out for its holistic approach to teacher development and focus on educational equity. It fosters reflective thinking and creates a supportive cohort model where early-career teachers learn from peers and mentors.
UTEP induction coaching is led by former Chicago Public Schools teachers who understand the urban classroom environment. The coaching focuses on helping educators recognize classroom dynamics and empowers them to create equitable, inclusive spaces for their student.
UTEP facilitates reflective discussions with teachers, encouraging them to evaluate their decisions. Through collaborative analysis, goal-setting, and self-reflection, we foster continuous learning, empowering educators to make informed decisions and enhance their teaching practices.