COE's two Race to the Top projects could be models for state, nation

Two innovative programs developed by University of Georgia College of Education faculty members in collaboration with school district partners—one improving preparation and support for new teachers and another providing professional development and support for early career principals—could ultimately serve as models for school districts across Georgia and throughout the nation.

Both programs provide additional clinical experiences, collaboration and mentorship that increase the likelihood of developing exceptional teachers and leaders, said Ron Cervero, associate dean of the college's office of outreach and engagement. The projects, funded by grants totaling more than $1 million from Georgia's Race to the Top Innovation Fund, were selected from more than 60 proposals.

In the Teach to Learn Partnership Program, the college is collaborating with the Clarke County School District in a teacher training program aimed at bridging the gap between teacher preparation and teacher induction while building school leadership capacity.