FOR ASPIRING EDUCATORS

Join the Next Black Educator Workforce


PROGRAM OVERVIEW

The Next Black Educator Workforce (NBEW) program, in partnership with the University of the Pacific, is a two-year (24-month) intensive pathway that helps aspiring teachers earn a Master of Arts in Education and a Single Subject Teaching Credential for middle and high school, while gaining hands-on experience as a teacher assistant or paraprofessional in partner schools.


By the end of this hybrid program, resident teachers will be prepared to become a teacher of record, leading their own classroom with the knowledge, skills, and passion to create an equitable learning environment for all students.

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EDUCATION TRAINING - M.A. CREDENTIAL 

WHO IS THIS PROGRAM FOR?


We seek aspiring educators committed to social justice, culturally responsive teaching, and supporting Black students. 


Whether you're a recent college graduate or career changer, this program provides the foundation to become a transformational educator.

PROGRAM HIGHLIGHTS


1. Two-Year Path to Your Teaching Credential: Over 24 months in this hybrid program, Resident Teachers complete hybrid coursework at the University of the Pacific, earning a Master of Arts in Education and a California Single Subject Teaching Credential, preparing you to be a teacher of record.


2. Classroom Experience: Work as a teacher assistant or paraprofessional in a classroom setting, co-teaching with mentor teachers, progressively leading instruction, and eventually transitioning to become a teacher of record.


3. Culturally Responsive Professional Development: Participate in professional development sessions focused on culturally responsive teaching, restorative justice practices, and effective family engagement, aimed at fostering equitable classroom environments and building strong community relationships.


4. Financial and Career Planning Support: In addition to the teaching and learning experience, residents will have access to financial advisory services, career coaching, and continued support for professional growth.


5. Advocacy and Leadership: Contribute to program improvements, advocate for underrepresented students, and leverage the alumni network for ongoing leadership development.

WHAT MAKES US UNIQUE?


1. Hybrid Model: Participate in virtual classes to complete credentialing coursework and attend in-person residencies for immersive professional development and networking opportunities.


2. Dual Credentials: Earn both a Master of Arts in Education and a Single Subject Teaching Credential through the University of the Pacific.


3. Hands-On Experience: Gain practical teaching experience by working as a teacher assistant or paraprofessional in partnering schools.


4. Mentorship: Receive personalized guidance from experienced educators who understand the unique challenges of the teaching profession.


5. Professional Development: Participate in culturally responsive training and leadership development opportunities.


6. Financial Guidance: Access financial advisory services to support your career and financial planning.


7. Networking: Build connections with a nationwide community of Black educators and allies dedicated to educational equity.

Leadership Opportunities: Gain access to long-term pathways for growth and impact in education.

WHAT IS RACIAL ISOLATION?


Racial isolation is the experience of being the only or one of the few individuals of a certain race in a community, school, or workplace. This can lead to feelings of loneliness and alienation, as well as limited access to cultural support or representation in these spaces.


The NBEW program, in partnership with the University of the Pacific, addresses this inequity by growing a new generation of Black educators who will lead in schools and communities that need it most.

fast facts

  • Program Type: Hybrid (virtual & in-person)
  • Number of Units: 32
  • Duration: 24 months
  • Application Priority Deadline: March 10
  • Program Start: Summer Session III
  • GRE: not required


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In the 2020–21 school year, Black students made up

15%

of the population in U.S. public schools.

Map of the United States of America

Black teachers only make up

6%

 of the U.S. public school teaching workforce.



Line graph that shows a decline with red arrow.

application requirements

Eligibility

  • U.S. citizen, permanent resident, or authorized to work.
  • Bachelor’s degree required.
  • Minimum cumulative GPA of 2.7 in the last 60 units.


Documentation

  • Updated resume.
  • Official college transcripts.
  • Personal Statement: Essay on passion for education and equity.
  • 1-3 letters of recommendation.


Other

  • Evidence of alignment with NBEW's mission.
  • $50 application fee
  • Deposit Fee: A $100 deposit is required to secure a spot in the program (if admitted)


Timeline

  • Application Opens: January 6, 2025
  • Priority Deadline: March 31, 2025
  • Admission Closeout: April 1- May 1, 2025
  • Interviews Scheduled: Starting April 1, 2025 and ongoing until seats are filled.
  • Final Selections Announced: By May 15, 2025




Have questions?
We’d love to hear from you! Reach out at nbew@projectsankofa.org or click the button below to send us a message directly.


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NEXT BLACK EDUCATOR WORKFORCE (NBEW) FOR ASPIRING EDUCATORS



FREQUENTLY ASKED QUESTIONS

  • 1. What is the Next Black Educator Workforce (NBEW)?

    The NBEW program is a two-year teacher credentialing and graduate studies program, with an ethnic studies emphasis, designed for college graduates who want to become certified middle or high school educators. Rooted in social justice and culturally responsive teaching, the program is offered in partnership with the University of the Pacific and provides guaranteed employment, hands-on classroom experience, graduate coursework, and financial literacy and mental health support. Upon successful completion of the program, participants receive a Master of Arts in Education degree with a Preliminary Single Subject Teaching Credential.


  • 2. Who should apply to the NBEW program?

    The program is for aspiring educators who have obtained a bachelor’s degree, are committed to social justice, and are passionate about teaching Black students in racially isolated communities. Applicants should be eager to center students' cultural frameworks and lived experiences while supporting educational equity.


    For those already working as a non-credentialed classroom teacher, teacher assistant, paraprofessional, or other support role, the NBEW program can still be a great fit. If your school district is a partner with us, we would want you to remain in your current position while participating in the program. If your district is not a partner, we would be happy to speak with your administration or leadership to explore potential options for partnership and how we can support your continued growth.


  • 3. What are the key components of the program?

    The NBEW program includes:


    • Guaranteed employment at a partner school site, as a teacher assistant or paraprofessional
    • Coursework at the University of the Pacific
    • Student teaching, including observing seasoned educators, co-teaching with mentor teachers, and leading classrooms—gradually taking on more teaching responsibilities
    • Professional development on culturally responsive teaching, restorative justice practices, effective family engagement, etc.
    • Mentorship and leadership pathways in education
    • Mental health services 
    • Financial literacy support 

  • 4. How is the coursework structured?

    The program uses a hybrid model that includes both virtual coursework and in-person residencies for immersive professional development. This structure allows for flexibility while providing essential face-to-face interaction and networking opportunities.

  • 5. What is the cost of the program, and is financial aid available?

    The cost of the program is aligned with the tuition fees of the University of the Pacific. However, we understand the importance of making this opportunity accessible, and financial aid options are available, including scholarships and other support. 


    As this is a new program, we are actively working on securing additional funds through grants and fundraising efforts to further expand financial support. Our goal is to significantly contribute to reducing the financial burden for participants. Additionally, the program will include a stipend, which will be discussed in more detail in the near future.

  • 6. Where will I be placed for my student teaching experience? Is relocation assistance available if needed?

    Your student teaching placement will be in one of our partner California schools that serves Black students in racially isolated communities. As this is a California-based program, we are currently encouraging applications from California residents only, and participants should be based in California for the duration of the program. Limited relocation assistance may be available on a case-by-case basis. 


    Please email nbew@projectsankofa.org for more details.

  • 7. What if I only want the teaching credential or just the Master’s in Education?

    At this time, and based on our partnership agreement, we are only enrolling participants who desire both a Master’s in Education and a teaching credential. We will continue to share future program updates as we evolve.

  • 8. What happens after I complete the program?

    NBEW collaborates with our partner schools and districts to guarantee that all graduates receive at least one teaching position offer. We also provide ongoing support as you transition into your career as an educator. In addition to our standard two-year program, we offer an optional three years of induction support as you work toward gaining your Clear Single Subject Teaching Credential. 


    While we encourage you to stay within the learning environment where you were placed for student teaching, as you will have built strong relationships and begun to make a meaningful difference, you may request our support for a different placement if needed. 


    Regardless, you will join a network of NBEW alumni who share a commitment to educational equity and social justice, offering opportunities for continued mentorship, professional development, and collaboration.

  • 9. How can I learn more or apply?

    For more information and to apply, visit www.projectsankofa.org/nbew-for-teachers or email nbew@projectsankofa.org.