Pathways

About Us

A good Education is a foundation for a better future

We know there is no single route into teaching. In fact, today more teachers are pursuing alternative pathways to the classroom than traditional routes. That’s why we have designed three pathways to meet different experiences, lifestyles, and the needs of the schools we serve. Whether you are brand new to the profession, ready to lead your own class, or called to serve students with diverse learning needs, we provide the preparation, mentorship, and holistic support you need to thrive.

Find Your Path to Teaching

Ready to create change? From the classroom to the community, our Residents learn the art of teaching through hands-on experience with mentor teachers.

Residency

Teacher of Record

Special Education

Frequently Asked Questions

Applications will open in August and close in mid-March.

The NTR recruitment cycle runs from August (current year) - May (next year), with cohorts starting in June. The Residency pathway is designed to take 1 year; the Teacher of Record pathway takes 12-18 months and depends on the subject area and when a candidate passes their Praxis.

NTR tuition is $7,000. Thanks to supplemental funding, we have been able to cover the full cost of tuition for the past two cohorts. We hope to continue offering the licensing program at no cost to candidates, but free tuition cannot be guaranteed until funding is secured each summer.

No, the only degree requirement is a Bachelor's degree.

NTR currently prepares teachers for grades 6–12 in Math, Science, ELA, History/Social Studies, and SPED Intervention.

Required exams depend on your content area and pathway. If you've already passed a Praxis exam relevant to your subject, we’ll ask for an official score report during the interview process, but everyone is asked to take a practice exam as a part of the interview process. 

Yes, we accept candidates from outside Tennessee and international applicants; however, relocation is the candidate's responsibility. International applicants should reach out directly to confirm eligibility related to work authorization (e.g., OPT). We do not not sponsor work visas.

Successfully completing all requirements for licensure includes completing the NTR program and coursework, passing the required Praxis exams, and successfully completing your clinical experience with the support of our Site Management team.  Once you have successfully completed each of those, you will be licensed to teach in the state of Tennessee.  Future employment is your responsibility, but we do have robust supports for our Alumni.

Our Alumni (Coming Soon)

Hear from NTR alumni who began their teaching careers through the program and are now making a difference in Nashville classrooms.

Contact Us

Our team is ready to answer all your questions.

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