CESA 9 (Tomahawk) has partnered with CESA 6 (Oshkosh) to deliver an innovative training program to meet predicted teacher shortages. Successful completion of the program offers experienced adults, who hold appropriate Bachelor's Degrees, the opportunity to become "highly qualified" teachers.

The Residency in Teacher Education (RITE) is an "on-the-job" program. While working under an emergency permit or license, candidates will simultaneously teach and complete the program that includes formal instruction approved by the Wisconsin Department of Public Instruction and provided by CESA 6. The formal instruction will occur prior to, during, and after the school year. Participants will learn, in part, about best instructional practices, assessing student progress, classroom management, and other instructional strategies. Additionally, time spent in the classroom, mentors in districts and supervisors at CESA 6 will provide on-the-job support. Formal instruction will be offered in the Fox Valley area (distance learning sites may be established around the state to better meet the needs of RITE teachers outside the CESA 6 region.)

Qualified adults will hold a Bachelor's Degree in engineering, music, art, foreign language, computer science, technology field, mathematics, or science from an accredited institution of higher education and be able to verify a total of five years of experience as a professional in the subject in which his/her degree was awarded. Special education requires a Bachelor's Degree and work experience related to working with individuals with disabilities. Competency in communication skills must be demonstrated with a passing score on the PRAXIS I - Pre-Professional Skills Test (PPST) test. Subject area competence must also be assured by passing the PRAXIS II Subject Assessment Test.

Tuition is based on length of time spent in the RITE program. Prospective candidates enrolled for the full two years will pay $10,000. Enrollees are responsible for additional fees such as textbooks and test fees.

Additional information is available on the CESA 6 website.

CESA 9 contact for the RITE program is Jenny Miner, 715-453-2141, ext. 250.