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Jefferson Elementary School District Teacher Residency Program
The University of San Francisco (USF) and Jefferson Elementary School District (JESD) Teacher Residency Program is a community-centered pathway into teaching designed to prepare educators who are deeply committed to their students, their schools, and the communities they serve. This program is grounded in the belief that strong teachers are developed through meaningful relationships, sustained practice, and learning alongside experienced mentors.
Residents spend a full academic year working side-by-side with a mentor teacher in a JESD classroom while completing credential coursework through USF. Coursework begins in the summer, allowing residents to build a strong foundation before entering the classroom in the fall.
Earn While You Learn: Financial Support & Commitment
This residency is designed to remove barriers to becoming a teacher by allowing candidates to earn while they learn. Residents engage in integrated coursework and classroom practice, developing their teaching in real time with ongoing support from both USF faculty and district educators.
- Earn $30,000 during the residency year
- Receive a 35% tuition discount at USF
- Gain priority hiring consideration in JESD for the 2027–2028 school year
This financial support allows residents to focus on their growth as educators while building a sustainable pathway into the profession. After completing the credential year, residents continue into a Master’s degree program through USF’s Teacher Education Department.
As part of this community-based model, residents commit to teaching in JESD for two years after completing the program, supporting continuity and long-term relationships with students and schools.
Program Focus
The residency is designed in close partnership with JESD to meet district priorities and support the needs of its schools and community. The program prioritizes preparing educators in high-need areas, including:
- Transitional Kindergarten (TK)
- Math
- Science
At the heart of this work is a shared commitment to diversifying the teaching profession. The program seeks to prepare and support educators whose identities, experiences, and perspectives reflect and strengthen the communities they serve. Through this residency model, candidates are not only learning to teach, but becoming part of a broader effort to build a more inclusive, representative, and responsive educator workforce.
Eligible Master's Programs
Teacher residents are eligible to complete a Master’s degree from USF’s Teacher Education Department.
About JESD
- JESD serves Pre-K to 8th grade students in Daly City, Colma, Broadmoor Village, and part of Pacifica in San Mateo County.
- The district's population is ethnically, economically, and linguistically diverse.
- JESD has 14 schools, 1 K-8, 10 elementary, and 3 middle schools.
- The district is piloting an ethnic studies program for elementary students.
- JESD is committed to equitable and engaging instruction for all students.
Upcoming Events
There are no upcoming events at this time.