FAQ

Careers

Am I eligible to apply to the program?

To apply for the CMS Teaching Residency, you must:

Hold a bachelor’s degree
Have a minimum GPA of 2.7 from your undergrad coursework, graduate coursework or a combination of both
Meet all legal requirements to work in the United States

This is a licensure program for beginning teachers with no current continuing teaching license or certification.

How much does the program cost?

Tuition: The tuition for the upcoming Cohort is $2000.00.

There is a Non-Refundable Enrollment fee of $250.00 for CMS internal applicants and $500.00 for external candidates, which will be applied to your tuition balance which is paid during your "clinical residency."

Testing: State-required certification tests, start at about $140 per test and vary depending on the exam. For more information about which exams you’ll need to take, download our testing guide at the bottom of this webpage.
edTPA: The application fee of $300 is for the state-required portfolio process. edTPA is completed during your "clinical residency." Should you need to resubmit a part of your portfolio there may be additional fees.
Other Fees: There are minimal costs (less than $100) for coursework materials. We will notify you in advance of any books or resources you need to purchase.

Is there financial support?

Candidates accepted into CMS Teaching Residency may be eligible for scholarship opportunities. Resident scholarships are awarded by CMS Foundation. Information regarding scholarships is shared with residents at the beginning of the "clinical residency" school year.

How do I know what test is required for the area I am interested in teaching?

You can click here to see the testing information or scroll to the bottom of the page and download the testing guide. It is best to take the test as soon as possible. Once you enroll with us, we will offer you resources to help you study.

How long does the program last?

Residents will participate in an intensive pre-service training beginning in mid-June. Pre-service training is conducted on a virtual/blended platform and is an unpaid experience. The details for the pre-service training will be shared as guidelines are provided from the district and the state. Pre-service training is followed by ongoing instructional support, testing support and online coursework throughout a resident’s first year in the classroom, "clinical residency."

Will I be able to work during pre-service training?

You will not be able to work during pre-service training hours (M-Th 8:00-5:00). You can work around that timeframe. This is an unpaid training so you will need to plan accordingly.

When will I be fully certified to teach?

Residents will receive a Residency License upon successful completion of pre-service training. Once you have successfully completed the first year of full-time teaching and met all program, district, and state requirements and performance standards (including passing all state-required certification exams) you will be recommended for an Initial or Continuing Professional License.

What will I teach?

For the upcoming 2023-2024 school year, we’re recruiting for

Elementary grades
Secondary (middle and high) math, science, English
EC General Curriculum.

Through your application process, you will be asked to give your preference for subject area and will be provided guidance for testing requirements, etc.

If I’m admitted to the program, am I guaranteed a job?

Like all prospective CMS teachers, residents will need to apply for open teaching positions that fit their interests and qualifications and be selected by individual principals. Since the Residency focuses on grades and subject areas that are in high demand across the district, we expect the residents who successfully complete pre-service training to be strong candidates for many positions. Our team will also provide resources and support to help residents navigate the hiring process. Keep in mind that you will not be eligible to apply for or interview for any teaching position until you have been cleared as eligible. Teaching positions are usually posted in April for the upcoming school year, so it is in your best interest to prioritize preparing for and taking your required tests as early as possible.

What will my salary be?

Once a resident has secured a teaching position, they will earn the same salary and benefits as other CMS teachers. For more information, see the CMS teacher pay schedule.

What if I am currently in my third year of a lateral entry license but I have not met the coursework and testing requirements to covert to a CPL (continuing professional license)?

If you meet the requirements for a residency license you can enroll and participate in CMS Teaching Residency. You will be starting your licensure process over which means you will have to complete coursework, testing (including edTPA during your first year) as well as other program, district and state requirements.

If I have more questions email cmsteachingresidency@cms.k12.nc.us.

Resource Downloads

CMSTR Testing Guide Revised 9_14.docx.pdf

P.O. Box 30035
Charlotte, NC 28230-0035
Phone: 980-343-3000

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