One of the best choices I have ever made!
Pros
Deciding to become a DC Teaching Fellow was one of the greatest decisions that I have made for my professional career. I applied to the fellows program as a career changer and appreciated that the program was welcoming of individuals with no prior teaching experience. I would strongly recommend the program to those looking to become long-term teachers, and are seeking a rigorous program with high expectations. The program was very fast paced, as you are trained for a short time before entering the classroom. There is a ton of information to learn and lots of practice before your first day teaching. Because teaching is very much a craft, it requires a lot of time, practice, patience, and dedication. Unlike other alternative teaching programs, DCTF allows you to gain real world experience by lead teaching during your training. You are in control of your classroom from day 1 of summer school. I was fortunate enough to build a close personal relationship with my instructional coach which helped personally and professionally. My coach was extremely supportive during the summer and throughout the school year. We met, practiced lessons together, and she even helped me plan lessons when needed. Again, I would highly recommend DC Teaching Fellows to all that are looking to become long-term teachers but have not gone the traditional route. The program prepares you as much as possible for entering the classroom and provides a ton of support to guide you through the program. You get what you are willing to put into the experience.
Cons
If possible, I would have liked more exposure to teaching my content area before the official school year began. During summer training, fellows teach reading, writing, and math which is beneficial but may not be applicable to all fellows. Also, there are no guarantees that you will be offered a teaching position during the school year. To some this may be off-putting however if you are willing to put in the work, the rest will fall into place. The program will not "give" you a pass to teaching, you will earn it. It is not for the faint of heart.
