Training & Ongoing Network

Candidates accepted into the program begin with a one-week Training Institute designed specifically for teachers entering the District as members of Oakland City Teacher Corps (OCTC).  At the Training Institute, Corps teachers are exposed to targeted seminars and workshops that are focused on the foundations of successful teaching in high-need schools – as well as curricula and initiatives specific to OUSD. During this training, Corps teachers also participate in discussions and activities focused on the challenges and benefits of teaching in a diverse educational setting.

The OCTC Training Institute consolidates a great deal of training time into just five days.  Training times will run from approximately 8:00 a.m. to 6:00 p.m.  Corps Teachers will receive a pre-tax stipend of $400 after successful completion of the OCTC Training Institute.   Note:  Corps Teachers must successfully meet OUSD pre-employment requirements and complete the OCTC Training Institute to receive the stipend.

Ongoing Network

Upon entering the program, the OCTC program office assists with logistical support and in helping Corps teachers manage the process of becoming full OUSD employees.*  OCTC also provides communications – including periodic newsletters – and offers special events for Corps Teachers.

The OCTC network creates opportunities for Corps Teachers to learn about ongoing professional development and socialize with like-minded colleagues. School assignment and Training Institute events facilitate connections among Corps Teachers who often teach the same subjects or who are clustered together in particular schools or areas of the city. Corps teachers can draw on these connections as a resource for planning, reflection, and shared encouragement as they strive for excellence in their individual classrooms.

During the school year, teachers report that they develop their most important and ongoing support network at the school level. Although every situation is different, Corps teachers may collaborate with co-teachers at their school, district instructional specialists, assistant principals, principals, or a grade-level or subject-level team.  Corps teachers may also continue to build on the induction experience of the Training Institute as they work with other new and experienced teachers who share the program mission of bringing the best teachers to all classrooms in Oakland to increase student achievement.

Support for Preliminary Credential Holders

Corps Teachers who hold Preliminary Credentials participate in the Beginning Teacher Support and Assessment (BTSA) induction program, which supports new teachers who are working toward a Clear Credential.  All OUSD teachers who are working to clear their credential are matched with a BTSA coach and attend regular BTSA workshops to earn credits toward the Clear Credential.  For more information about New Teacher Support and Development and the BTSA program, click here.