Overview
Associates is a professional learning experience in which teachers and leaders from partner school districts meet with university professors and leaders who engage in educator preparation. Other participants* in higher education are often invited as members of the community who share an interest in public education or who interface with K-12 schools.
Five, two-day sessions are held during the school year. Each session focuses on one of the 5 Partnership Commitments:
- Preparation of students for civic life and individual engagement in our democratic society
- Engaged learning through nurturing pedagogy
- Equitable access to academic knowledge and achievement for all students
- Stewardship in the school and community
- Commitment to continuous renewal
These moral dimensions of teaching serve as the foundational claims of the Educator Preparation Program (EPP) at BYU, informing how educators are prepared to work with children and youth. The program engages participants in discussions and activities around relevant readings and conversations about school practice.
These principles help expand the participants’ understanding and valuing of public education and the calling of teachers. Optional field trips may be available for participants to witness these principles in action. As participants explore ideas and gain a deeper understanding of education and the Partnership, they exchange viewpoints with one another and build lasting relationships. Time for reflection is one of the important aspects of the program. Many who participate comment that the experience has been “life-changing” and that they would love to continue for another year. Each of the five partner school districts facilitates at least one group per year.
Note: Participants are chosen by each respective district.