Enacted in Chapter 53 of the Laws of 1987

Purpose…

…to enhance the preparation of teachers and prospective teachers in addressing the learning needs of students at risk of truancy, academic failure, or dropping out of school; and to increase the participation rate of historically underrepresented and economically disadvantaged individuals in teaching careers.

Eligibility…

…competitive grants are awarded to institutions that offer approved programs in teacher preparation leading to permanent certification (that is, programs registered by the State Education Department for teacher education purposes.) IHE’s proposing to administer projects through formal articulation agreements with schools/districts having high concentration of uncertified teachers and or students at-risk, including Schools Under Registration Review (SURR) are given highest priority.

Target Audience…

…TOC serves full-time undergraduate/graduate students, or part-time graduate students completing the requirements for provisional/initial or permanent/professional certification.

First Priority: to individuals identified as underrepresented and underserved in the teaching profession, that is: African Americans, Hispanic Americans, Native Americans, or Alaskan Natives.

Second Priority: to any individual economically disadvantaged (in accordance with the criteria established in statute for the TOC program).

Third Priority: to any individual whether or not historically underrepresented in teaching or economically disadvantaged.

Program Services… …

TOC provides specialized coursework to address the needs of at-risk students; coordinates supplemental field placements at low performing schools, and links graduates with mentors during the first year of teaching. TOC projects also provide support services such as counseling, academic advising and supplemental research experiences

Teacher Opportunity Corps
Impact and Accomplishments

**TOC Projects report 95% teacher retention after 5 years

TOC Projects Study and Implement Best Practices in Teaching 

…through the K-16 Professional Development
Network, share information about recent
research, school needs, and teaching practices

… provide laboratory for observing,
planning and teaching at-risk students

…partner with professional practice schools

…field test inquiry-based learning

…utilize research-based practical training

…design specialized curricula for at-risk students