April 2, 2024 — The National Center for Teacher Residencies (NCTR) is taking part in a nationwide Community of Practice (CoP) dedicated to increasing the use of high-quality instructional materials (HQIM) in programs that prepare future teachers. Education First, the host organization, has brought together educational leaders to engage in deep collaboration, share their knowledge, and jointly develop strategies and resources around effectively utilizing HQIM. This is the second iteration of NCTR’s work in curriculum literacy, building on previous efforts.
NCTR team members Tyiesha Hoskins and Bill Kennedy are participants in the Learning Track of this CoP. They are partnering with Dr. Patricia Rand from Siena College, an NCTR Network member, who will integrate the CoP’s learnings and materials to enhance their coursework during the residency year and better prepare candidates for using HQIM. Across the Learning and Design Tracks, CoP members collaborate intensively, exchange knowledge, and co-create approaches for HQIM integration.
Within the Learning Track, CoP members assess the current state of HQIM incorporation into mathematics coursework and field experiences for prospective teachers. Participants guide one another through evaluating readiness, establishing goals to update curriculum, and planning to measure progress over time.
The Design Track examines existing HQIM integration efforts, pinpoints gaps, and develops needed materials and guidance. While not directly involved here, NCTR anticipates benefiting from the resources this track generates.
Through this immersive Community of Practice, NCTR aims to understand challenges, success factors, and emerging best practices.