Saint Paul Public Schools calls on diverse, dedicated individuals, like you, to become teachers. “Minnesota consistently leads the nation in academic achievement. We know how to teach children in this state and we do it well. If the achievement gap is going to be closed anywhere, it’s going to be here in Saint Paul, and it’s going to take a community-wide effort… Our city’s future will be shaped by our children. We must prepare them for success by surrounding them with both high expectations and high quality academic, social and cultural opportunities. To devote anything less than our very best effort to this work is to give up on the future.” — Superintendent Meria Carstarphen

Saint Paul Public Schools (SPPS) serve more than 42,000 students. Approximately 74% of district students are ethnically diverse; our students are 30% African American, 30% Asian, and 13% Hispanic. There is a substantial refugee population from Africa and Asia, bringing both great language and cultural diversity and new demands on Saint Paul schools. In total, Saint Paul students speak 113 languages and dialects, including Hmong, Spanish, Somali, and Vietnamese, among many others. As educators, Saint Paul Teaching Fellows are charged with ensuring high academic achievement for all students in their classrooms. Fellows can become role models, advocates, and most importantly, leaders in closing the achievement gap.

In 2007, only 22 of the 65 traditional SPPS K-12 schools met both reading and math standards – far fewer schools than just one year ago, when 47 schools made the grade. The district is poised to change these statistics – implementing a Strategic Plan for Continued Excellence and continuing to engage educators, community groups, and families in striving for the best. Teaching Fellows can join this movement to make a real change in our community. When 2/3 of Saint Paul schools aren’t making the grade, the urgency for additional new dedicated educators is real. 

Saint Paul Public Schools are an inclusive hiring district. Inclusiveness applies to all members of the learning community ensuring that all are safe, welcomed, valued and respected for who we each are, and for our talents, skills and abilities.  The Saint Paul Public Schools will work to ensure that all members of its learning community have an opportunity to reach their maximum potential.

Teaching Fellows work tirelessly to ensure high academic achievement for the students who need dedicated teachers the most. Fellows will teach in high-need schools in Saint Paul Public Schools where the need for highly qualified teachers is critical.  Fellows will teach in traditionally low income neighborhoods; 71% of our students qualify for free or reduced lunch. Fellows will teach students from amazingly diverse backgrounds; 41% of our students are English Language Learners. Teachers in high-need schools are especially committed to overcoming the challenges they face in helping their students achieve.  The first year for any new teacher is challenging, and Fellows should anticipate an intense effort, especially at the beginning of the year.

A typical school day may run from 8:05 am to 2:40 pm.  Fellows will also attend courses as they pursue their teaching license, as well as professional development activities to support their classroom efforts.  Beyond the formal school day, Fellows should expect to spend substantial time out of class preparing lessons, grading student work, and communicating with parents and guardians. They may have after-school meetings with school staff, their grade-level or subject team, or students’ family members. 

Want to learn more? Visit Saint Paul Public Schools’ website for more information about the district. Click here to join us for an Information Session.