FAQs

Does HT ATCP place interns with school districts?

After acceptance into HT ATCP, each applicant is responsible for securing his/her own employment in an area public school.  A list of eligible candidates will be provided to area districts.  Approved Phase 2 candidates must be employed by the end of the first six weeks of the semester to continue in the program.

 

During the internship, am I paid a salary?

Yes, once approved for the internship by HT ATCP and hired by a school district, candidates (now referred to as interns) are paid a first-year teacher's salary. As with any employment, it is the employee's responsibility to check with the employing school district about salary and benefits. Interns are considered a teacher and employee of the school district. As such, interns are subject to all rules and responsibilities as outlined in local school board policy. Once interns earn their standard teaching certificate, the internship year counts as the first year of service.

 

When will I begin receiving my salary?

Teachers, in general, are paid on a monthly basis no later than the last working day of the month. First-year teachers typically receive their first paycheck at the end of September even though they may have begun working in August. Interns should be prepared for a lean first month.

 

What kind of salary can I expect to earn?

All school districts pay a minimum state base salary; many districts pay above state base. Please check with individual districts about their respective salary scales and benefit packages.   Most districts post their teacher salary scale on the district web site.  Many districts also pay stipends (an additional annual fee) to teachers in areas such as special education, bilingual, math, or science.

 

Once I complete the application process and meet the academic requirements, am I automatically enrolled in the program?

Applicants are not automatically enrolled in the program when they complete the application process, even if they meet all the program requirements.  Submitting an application begins the process of admission to HT ATCP.  Applications and transcripts will be reviewed for eligibility. Additional requirements include:

• An online interview
• A review of all program application information

All candidate information is reviewed and selections are made based on program capacity and strength of the candidate in relation to other applicants.

 

Will the program require much of a time commitment?

Yes, HT ATCP is an intense, high quality program. Phase 1 candidates attend at least 120 hours of instruction, complete 20 hours of classroom observations, as well as complete online assignments if they are seeking specail education certification. The program is designed only for highly committed candidates who are able to excel in an intense, fast-paced, instructional environment.

 

Upon Completion of my internship year, do I automatically receive my standard teaching certificate?

No.  Completing the internship year does not automatically entitle you to a certificate.

1. You must have met all requirements of the state,  employing district, and Huston-Tillotson University ATCP.
2. You must have been recommended for the standard certificate by your district and the HT ATCP Director.
3. You must have passed the required Teacher Certification Exams.
4. You must have achieved at least satisfactory results in your employment appraisal.