Wayne State University’s College of Education will train new teachers to work in Detroit schools as part of the new TeachDETROIT initiative.

The college is recruiting current undergraduate students — as well as candidates with a college degree — to participate in the teacher residency program, which kicks off this summer. Applications are due May 15. 

Jennifer Lewis, professor and director of TeachDETROIT, said the program stresses cultural competence as a prerequisite to working in urban schools. TeachDETROIT also prepares teachers for ambitious academic work with children of color.

“The revitalization of Detroit must also include a revitalization of the education system,” Lewis said. “To achieve this, institutions must train quality teachers who are prepared to work with students from diverse backgrounds.”

TeachDETROIT, funded in part by a grant from the Skillman Foundation, is designed to prepare new teachers who are interested in urban education. Coursework will be integrated with field experiences in Detroit schools, and participants will be mentored by experienced teachers with a history of successful practice in Detroit. 

For more information or to apply, visit tinyurl.com/TeachDETROITstipend.