Virginia Union University has received a $230,000 portion of a $2.3 million grant from the U.S. Department of Education’s Teacher Quality Partnership program to establish a Teacher Residency program. The funding, in collaboration with Virginia Commonwealth University, will support the development of innovative teacher internships and residency programs over the next three years.

The program will work to address teacher shortages by enhancing recruitment, preparation and development. VUU will use the grant to pilot a Yearlong Teacher Residency Internship, with plans to offer a paid residency option.

This initiative is designed to support undergraduate students and career changers entering education.

“We are excited to collaborate with VCU on this groundbreaking initiative, which will enhance the training and support of future educators, particularly in high-needs areas,” said Joan B. Johnson, dean of the School of Education at VUU. “This residency program not only addresses the critical need for teachers in underserved schools but also offers a sustainable pathway for students and career changers to enter the teaching profession with financial support.”

Launching in spring 2025, the pilot program will build on VUU’s existing 16-week student teaching experience. Participants will be paired with mentors and receive sti- pends during their internship year, alleviating financial burdens while providing hands-on, immersive learning. By the 2025-2026 academic year, the program aims to expand into a full yearlong Teacher Residency initiative.

“This partnership demonstrates our commitment to addressing educational inequities and supporting the next generation of educators,” said Hakim J. Lucas, president and CEO of VUU. “Through this grant, we are investingin the future of education and creating opportunities for aspiring teachers to thrive in their profession.”

For more information about the Teacher Residency program, contact Johnson at jbjohnson@vuu.edu.