Frequently Asked Questions
- What is EnCorps?
- EnCorps STEM Mentors
- Teacher Application Process
- How do I apply?
- Is there a paper application?
- How long will the application take to complete?
- What do I need to complete my application?
- What should I include in my responses to the Application Questions?
- Do I need to send transcripts when I apply?
- What happens after I apply?
- What happens at a Preliminary Assessment Interview Day?
- I meet all of the program’s eligibility requirements. Why wasn’t I accepted?
- I wasn't accepted. Can I appeal the decision?
- Teacher Eligibility
- How do I know if I am eligible for EnCorps?
- Am I eligible if I have no previous teaching experience or prior coursework in education?
- If I already have a teaching credential can I apply?
- If I am credentialed in another state can I apply?
- What if I do not have a math or science background?
- Can I apply if I am out of state?
- Teacher Time Commitment
- What will my commitment be to the EnCorps Teachers Program?
- The EnCorps Educator Pathway
- Exploring Education – Tutoring
- Learn to lead – Guest Teaching
- Lead to learn – Full-time Credential Program/Full-time Teaching
- Benefits of Joining the EnCorps Program
- What benefits are there to joining EnCorps?
- Why should you become part of the EnCorps Teachers Program’s Mission?
- Is there a Cost?
- Teacher Testing
- Do I need to have taken or passed tests to apply?
- What tests will I need to take?
- When should I take the CBEST?
- When should I take the CSET?
- Does EnCorps provide CSET study materials?
- I want to teach Science. Which CSET exam should I take?
- I want to teach math. Which CSET exam should I take?
- I have a graduate degree in math or science. Do I need to take the CSET to prove my competency in my subject matter?
- Training and Support
- Boot Camp & Summer Institute
- Earning a CA Single Subject Teaching Credential
- Teaching
- Can I teach part-time?
- Do I need to commit to a specific number of years of teaching?
- How long does it take to earn a credential? What are the different kinds of credential programs?
- What if I want to teach a subject other than Math or Science?
- What kind of support will I receive as a new teacher?
- What is it like to be a first year teacher?
- Placement
- Does EnCorps provide placements at each step on the career pathway?
- Where in California are EnCorps Educators placed?
The EnCorps Teachers Program is a nonprofit organization that is focused on closing the achievement gap by recruiting math and science professionals and supporting them as they transition into teaching careers.
We are not a job placement service, and do not place already credentialed teachers.
How do I apply?
Applications will only be accepted online here.
What is the time commitment?
One hour a week for at least one school semester.
How do I apply?
In order to be considered for the EnCorps Teachers Program, you must complete our online application. Please fill in all the requested information and then upload your resume and your thoughtful responses to the 4 Application Questions. When finished, please make sure you submit the application for review.
Is there a paper application?
No. All applications must be submitted online.
How long will the application take to complete?
The entire process should take you 35-75 minutes. If you are a quicker writer you can expect 30-45 minutes. If you are a slower writer, it will take a bit longer. You can choose to not complete the application in one sitting. At the end of each page, you have the option to save your work and come back to complete it later.
What do I need to complete my application?
In order for an application to be considered complete, you need to submit the following:
- Completed online application
- Uploaded resume
- Thoughtful answers to all 4 Application Questions.
What should I include in my responses to the application questions?
We ask candidates to thoroughly address each of the following 4 Application Questions:
- EnCorps aims to serve California's under-resourced schools and high-need student populations in low-income communities. What skills or experience do you have that most qualify you to increase student academic achievement in a high-need school?
- Describe an ambitious goal that you have met in your past experience. Why was it important to you to achieve that goal, and what steps did you take to achieve it?
- Describe a professional, personal, or academic challenge you have overcome, and how that experience will help you to be a highly effective teacher in a high-need school:
- Please describe a time in your life when you have failed. What did you learn from it, if anything, and how did you address it?
We urge candidates to put a good deal of time and effort in to crafting their responses to the Application Questions, as this document (along with the resume) carries a lot of weight and plays a prominent role in our decision whether or not to invite candidates to our interview days. Also, this document gives us a more personal perspective on your candidacy and offers us a strong sense of your reasons and motivation to apply for the program. Please do not send a generic cover letter in the place of the Application Questions.
Do I need to send transcripts when I apply?
No. Transcripts are not necessary for completing your application. After your application is screened by EnCorps you may be invited to an interview day. At that point, if you already have sealed official transcripts, please bring them to your interview. If not, please order them after interviewing and send them to our office at:
EnCorps Teachers Program
c/o Sherry Lansing Foundation
2121 Avenue of the Stars, Suite 2020
Los Angeles, CA 90067
What happens after I apply?
After you have submitted your complete online application, it will go through an initial screen by an EnCorps staff member. You will be informed of our decision within approximately 2 weeks. If you meet all our eligibility criteria and appear to be a good fit for the program, we will invite you to a Preliminary Assessment Interview Day. If after that interview day, we confirm that you are a good fit for our program, we will extend an offer for you to join the program.
What happens at a Preliminary Assessment Interview Day?
Our Preliminary Assessment (PA) Days enable us to get to know you better and to make a final decision on your fit for the program. PA events generally run about 4 hours. Candidates are placed into small groups along with two EnCorps Assessors (interviewers). Each candidate is asked to present a 5-minute sample-teaching lesson, participate in a group discussion, write about a realistic education scenario, and engage in a one-on-one interview. Each candidate is evaluated holistically, and successful candidates will demonstrate the potential to raise student achievement in a high need school during each part of the interview day. More information about Preliminary Assessment Interview Days and how to prepare for them will be provided to qualified candidates that receive an invitation to interview.
I meet all of the program's eligibility requirements. Why wasn't I accepted?
The EnCorps Teachers Program is a selective program. Our eligibility requirements are only the minimum qualifications necessary to be considered for the program, and meeting them in no way guarantees an applicant acceptance. Although ensuring candidates meet our program's eligibility requirements is an important step in our initial review of applications, our selection process is ultimately driven by our desire to identify individuals with strong track records of achievement in their previous endeavors that demonstrate a steadfast commitment towards improving the achievement of students in California’s high need schools. Unfortunately, due to the volume of applicants, we are not able to provide individual feedback to candidates.
I wasn't accepted. Can I appeal the decision?
No. All applications are thoroughly reviewed during our rigorous selection process, and admission decisions are final. Because we receive an exceptional number of applications each year, we are unable to provide personalized feedback to applicants who have not been accepted to the program. We encourage all applicants interested in education to continue to pursue teaching through other avenues. You can begin your research on other programs by visiting the California Commission on Teacher Credentialing's (CCTC) website.
How do I know if I am eligible for EnCorps?
EnCorps Educators come to us from a diverse range of backgrounds. In order to meet basic eligibility requirements, a candidate must meet the following criteria:
· Must be a science, technology, engineering, or math (STEM) professional
· Fully eligible to work in the United States
· Able to pass a background check
· Have a Bachelor’s degree with a GPA of 2.50 or higher
· Not be in possession of a teaching credential (in California or any other state with a reciprocal agreement)
Am I eligible if I have no previous teaching experience or prior coursework in education?
Yes. The EnCorps Teachers Program is designed to support professionals in the math and science fields who are interested in transitioning to teaching and who demonstrate leadership, achievement, and a commitment to urban education. Previous coursework or experience in education is not necessary.
If I already have a teaching credential can I apply?
No. Our program is designed to assist math and science professionals in their transition to teaching careers. If you are already a credentialed teacher, you are not eligible to apply.
If I am credentialed in another state can I apply?
No. California has reciprocal credential agreements with nearly all other states. For more information on these agreements and their requirements, please see the California Commission on Teacher Credentialing’ s website.
What if I do not have a math or science background?
California’s low-income schools often struggle to find highly qualified math and science teachers. This is why the EnCorps Teacher Program’s mission is to recruit, prepare, and support science, technology, engineering, and math (STEM) professionals as they make the transition to teaching in low-income schools. If you are interested in teaching other subjects, please visit the CCTC ’s web page for credentialing options.
Can I apply if I am out of state?
Yes, but if invited, you must be willing to interview and work in either the Los Angeles or San Francisco Bay areas.
What will my commitment be to the EnCorps Teachers Program?
When you join EnCorps, you will be committing to a 10-weeks of tutoring followed by 10-weeks guest-teaching. Throughout these first two steps, you are asked to volunteer once a week for 3-5 hours. Following your experience tutoring and guest-teaching, you will enter and complete a teacher credentialing program. During this time, you also commit to attending Winter Institute and Boot Camp.
Exploring Education – Tutoring
You will begin your journey into teaching as a volunteer and observer in local EnCorps partner schools. Your first experience will be tutoring students in after school and/or enrichment programs or in a classroom. You will spend 3-5 hours per week facilitating student learning and gaining valuable experience in schools and with students. This exploration into teaching provides you with time to take the required exams (CBEST/CSET) and consider whether full time teaching is the right pathway for them.
Learn to lead – Guest Teaching
During this phase, you will be paired with a cooperating teacher and spend at least one day a week (3-5 hours per day) in that teacher’s classroom observing, working with individuals and small groups of students, and eventually teaching portions of lessons and whole lessons to the class. This structured, 10-week program provides an opportunity for you to gain valuable classroom experience and to make connections with schools that may eventually be looking to hire STEM teachers.
Lead to learn – Full-time Credential Program/Full-time Teaching
In this phase, you select and complete your preferred credentialing program and move into the classroom full-time. When you complete your first year full-time teaching as the teacher of record in your classroom, you will be eligible for a $7,700 tuition reimbursement stipend.
Benefits of Joining the EnCorps Program
What benefits are there to joining EnCorps?
The EnCorps Teachers Program exists to support math and science professionals as they make the transition to teaching. That means we set you up with experiences in the classroom that help you determine whether or not full-time teaching is the best fit for you. We place you with partner agencies for tutoring and guest teaching and when you are ready to enter the classroom full-time, we help you make connections with principals and schools. Upon entering your first year of teaching at a high-needs school, you become eligible for 100% Tuition Reimbursement through federal and state forgivemess programs.
Why should you become part of the EnCorps Teachers Program’s Mission?
Your knowledge and experience can help ensure that every child in California has access to a high quality math and science education. There is a long-standing achievement gap in California, and we know that high-quality teachers are the single most important factor in raising student achievement. As an EnCorps Educator you will join a network of like-minded professionals dedicated to closing the achievement gap and to making a difference in the lives of their students.
EnCorps provides our Educators the following free of charge: CSET test prep materials (if needed), coaching, professional development, and support services including Boot Camp, Winter Institute and online web seminars (webinars).
While EnCorps support services are free, program participants are responsible for fingerprinting/LiveScan fees, TB testing fee, test registration fees and fees associated with ordering transcripts. They are also responsible for all credentialing tuition, as well as all materials and textbooks required by your University Intern program.
EnCorps Educators who are tutoring and guest-teaching are considered volunteers and are unpaid.
Do I need to have taken or passed tests to apply?
No. If you have not yet taken and passed the California teacher tests, you are still eligible to apply. If accepted into the program, we will assist you in signing up for the tests appropriate to your subject area.
What tests will I need to take?
To be qualified to enter credentialing programs and teach in the classroom, you must take and pass both the CBEST and the CSET. When you do sign up to test, EnCorps is included as an agency you can choose to send your score report to. Our code number is: 889.
The CBEST, the California Basic Educational Skills Test, screens for basic reading, mathematics, and writing skills. The exam contains both multiple-choice and essay questions. The paper test is offered every other month and the computer version is generally offered at least once a month. For more information, please visit the CBEST registration page.
The CSET, the California Subject Examinations for Teachers, tests your subject-matter competency in either math or a science discipline. The CSET exams are generally more difficult than the CBEST as they require much more in-depth knowledge of your subject area (math or science). The CSET test is broken up into 3 or more subtests depending on the subject. For more detailed information on what is covered in each subtest, click HERE. CSET tests are offered every other month and are only available as a paper test. It is also advised that you do not take more than 2 subtests in one sitting. Test takers are given the same amount of time regardless of the number of subtests signed up for. Please keep this in mind when registering. Please visit the CSET website for further details, test dates, and to sign-up.
When should I take the CBEST?
Applicants will need to take and pass the CBEST as part of the first phase of the EnCorps program. Further details on the timeline will be available when candidates join the program .
When should I take the CSET?
Applicants are encouraged to become familiar with the CSET tests as soon as possible. You must take and pass the tests before applying to a California teacher credentialing program.
Does EnCorps provide CSET study materials?
EnCorps can provide CSET study materials if requested, once you have gone through an interview day with EnCorps and received and signed an offer letter.
I want to teach Science. Which CSET exams should I take?
The science CSET exam is comprised of up to 4 subtests, which can be taken all in one sitting or individually. It is advised that you take one or two subtests at a time, as you have the same 5 hours to test no matter how many subtests you are signed up for. All science teachers need to pass subtests I and II, which cover general science. After that, you must select and take one of the subtest III exams. Choose the subtest III that pertains to the subject you intend to teach: biology/life science, chemistry, earth and planetary science, or physics. You may take more than one subtest III if you would like to be qualified to teach more than one science subject (though initially your credentialing program will ask you to select one to focus on). By passing subtests I, II, and III, you will be qualified to teach General Science, Integrated Science and the concentration covered by subtest III you selected.
For more details on what the exams test for please visit the official CSET site.
I want to teach math. Which CSET exams should I take?
In order to obtain a single subject math credential, you would need to take and pass math subtests I, II, and III. Passing all three tests qualifies you to teach all mathematics K-12 including calculus. Please visit the official CSET site for more details on what is on the tests and when they are held.
I have a graduate degree in math or science. Do I need to take the CSET to prove my competency in my subject matter?
Yes. In some rare instances, a candidate may apply for and receive a subject-matter waiver from the University where he or she is enrolled in credentialing courses. The requirements for a waiver are extremely specific and non-negotiable. We recommend that all candidates register for and prepare to take the CSET even if they choose to pursue a waiver so as not to jeopardize their eligibility to teach.
Boot Camp and Winter Institute
EnCorps holds two professional development events a year – a 3-day Boot Camp in June and a 1-day Winter Institute in January. A key element of the training is helping Educators understand their role as “CEO of the classroom.” At Boot Camp, EnCorps facilitates workshops that address challenge areas for transitioning professionals. Key topics include:
· * understanding how to manage a classroom
· * understanding the history, challenges, and current successes in urban education
· * planning lessons
· * building relationships with students
· * setting and achieving ambitious learning goals for students
Classroom Observations and Counseling
EnCorps Educators benefit from continuing program support throughout the Career Pathway.
Earning a CA Single Subject Teaching Credential
The following are brief profiles of the various types of credentialing programs in California:
* Intern program
An internship program allows individuals with a bachelor’s degree and subject matter competency to work in the classroom as a “teacher of record,” while completing a credential program. These individuals are working teachers and paid a salary by the District for their teaching time. Internships are generally offered for hard-to-staff subject fields; currently, science and mathematics. The Intern program allows individuals who do not currently hold a teaching credential to teach for two years while taking graduate-level education credits toward achieving a Preliminary Teaching Credential.
- Early Completion Internship Option
Some university intern credentialing programs offer an “Early Completion Option” (ECO). The ECO is intended to provide individuals who have requisite skills and knowledge an opportunity to challenge the course work portion of a Multiple or Single Subject Internship Program and demonstrate pedagogical skills through a performance assessment while in a Commission- approved internship program. The ECO allows candidates to complete the requirements for a preliminary credential in a shorter amount of time, generally one academic year. In order to be eligible for the ECO option, candidates must pass the Teaching Foundations Exam (TFE). The TFE test is designed to assess knowledge of teaching methods that are generally taught during the course of a traditional teacher preparation program. Examples include Early Completion option at Alliant International University.
* Residency Programs
Teacher Residency programs are generally a 14-month graduate-level program. Modeled after a medical residency, a teaching residency program gives teaching students, or “residents,” the chance to implement ideas in a classroom setting, while receiving feedback and support from expert practitioners. Residents are simultaneously taking graduate level classes. Most residency programs offer a “living wage” during the 14-month period. Admission into the Residency program and the partner-accredited university are required. Examples include Los Angeles Urban Teachers Residency (LAUTR) and the San Francisco Teacher Residency program (SFTR).
* Traditional Credentialing Program
Traditional credential programs provide course work and teacher training for individuals who have already earned a bachelor's degree prior to teaching in the classroom. This option typically takes 18 – 24 months. Passage of CBEST and CSET is required for admission. Examples include: San Jose State University, Cal State LA, etc.
- 12-month credential program (Fast Track) – Many universities offer a dual credentialing/Master’s program that candidates can be completed in a 12-month calendar year. Examples include: Pepperdine University, Stanford Teacher Education Program (STEP) and MAT@USC.
For more detailed information about these programs, check out the above mentioned schools and the master list of accredited credentialing programs in the state found on the CCTC website.
How long does it take to earn a credential? What are the different kinds of credential programs?
Teaching credential programs in California vary in length and type. For further information on the various types of credential programs and their time lines, see the Earning a Single Subject Credential section above.
Can I teach part-time?
Part-time math and science teaching positions are offered by very few districts and are almost never available to new math and science teachers. If you decide full-time teaching is not feasible for you, EnCorps recommends that you continue tutoring or consider becoming a substitute teacher.
Do I need to commit to a specific number of years of teaching?
To qualify for the Loan Forgiveness Programs, you must serve as a full-time teacher of record for one-five years. The longer you teach in a high needs school, the greater the loan forgiveness amount. It is EnCorps’ goal to seek and accept candidates with a commitment to becoming an effective teacher. Learning to teach is both an art and a science and it can take five years to gain your stride as a new teacher. As you consider becoming an EnCorps Teacher, you are considering moving into a rewarding, exciting and challenging career.
What if I want to teach a subject other than Math or Science?
EnCorps was developed to address the overwhelming shortages of qualified Math and Science teachers at the middle and high school level in low-income schools. Currently, we do not provide a pathway to teaching at the elementary or adult school level. We do not assist in matching teachers in other subject areas at the middle or high school level.
What kind of support will I receive as a new teacher?
As a new teacher, you can expect to be introduced to a mentor teacher from the school district you work for. We recommend that you do not wait for a mentor to be assigned, but that you identify a compatible mentor yourself. In most instances, your mentor teacher will work at your school site. Depending on the school, your department chairs, administrators, instructional coaches and the principal will play a valuable roll in helping you acclimate to the school environment. You may also participate in the professional development activities provided by your school district. The University Intern program will provide a coach who may visit your classroom and provide feedback. Additionally, the program staff provide feedback and personal support to Educators in their assigned regions.
What is it like to be a first year teacher?
New full-time classroom teachers should expect to be very busy. Almost all successful new teachers discover that additional time outside of the classroom is required to be effective and to make a significant impact on student achievement. This time outside of the regular school day can include lesson planning, grading papers, communicating with parents/guardians, coaching a sport, or working at an after-school program. Read more about what it is like to be a new teacher here.
We believe that Ellen Moir of the New Teacher Center at Santa Cruz addressed this question in her article, "The Phases of First Year Teaching. Here is an excerpt: "First-year teaching is a difficult challenge...While not every new teacher goes through this exact sequence...teachers move through several phases from anticipation, to survival, to disillusionment, to rejuvenation, to reflection; then back to anticipation."
Does EnCorps provide placements at each step on the career pathway?
Placements are arranged with our partner institutions for the tutoring and guest-teaching pieces of the program only. If asked to join EnCorps, you will meet with program staff to work out which of our partners’ openings would suit you best. Assignments are based on need and location.
EnCorps does not provide job placements. We will do our best to help you make connections with schools and principals, but we do not guarantee job placement.
Where in California are EnCorps Educators placed?
We have educators placed in the San Francisco Bay area, the Silicon Valley, Los Angeles and its surrounding vicinity and San Diego. EnCorps Educators work in high-need schools in low-income communities as our mission dictates. We work with traditional public and charter schools that are dedicated to improving education for their students and supporting the development of new teachers.
