HawksTeach Residency Program

The UHCL Hawks Teach Residency Program

Earn a salary while launching your teaching career!

The Hawks Teach Residency Program offers aspiring educators hands-on experience during their final two semesters. Resident teachers work alongside a highly effective mentor teacher for a full school year, receiving a salary from the local school district. Coursework at UHCL is designed to integrate theory and practice, with class schedules structured around in-school experience.

Upon successful completion, residents receive preferential hiring and one year of service credit at their cooperating district.

Why Choose a Teacher Residency?

• Earn While You Learn – Receive a salary as a paid district employee while gaining classroom experience.
• Mentorship & Support – Work closely with an experienced mentor teacher throughout the year.
• Stronger Preparation – Graduate with real-world experience, increasing confidence and effectiveness.
• Career Advantages – Gain hiring priority and a service credit within the district. The Enhanced Teacher Residency distinction on your teaching certificate will give you an advantage over other new teachers at any district.
• Seamless Integration of Theory & Practice – Course schedules are designed to complement your hands-on training.
• Pedagogy and Professional Responsibilities EC–12 (PPR) TExES Exam requirement waived.

Eligibility Requirements

• Completing any initial certification - PK-3, EC-6, 4-8, 7-12 (excluding Math or Science)
• On track to complete all coursework before Clinical I with only 2 to 3 courses remaining.
• Completion of 50 hours of Field-Based Experience prior to beginning Clinical I.
• Able to pass a state and national criminal background check for employment in schools.
• Demonstrate a strong work ethic, openness to feedback, and a belief in all students' potential.

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Upcoming Information Sessions

In-Person Session

February 24, 2026
6:30-7:30 p.m.
Location: Center for Education Programs - Arbor Building

Virtual Sessions

February 25, 2026
2-3 p.m.
Access February 25 Session via Zoom

February 26, 2026
7-8 p.m.
Access February 26 Session via Zoom

Special Accommodations: If any special requests or accommodation for a disability are needed in order to participate in this program, please email education@uhcl.edu at least one week prior to the tour to arrange for the accommodation and add this to the request form. 

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For More Information

For more information about the Paid Residency Program, view the webinar and flyer:

 Program Webinar (PDF)Program Flyer (PDF)