Indigenous Teacher Preparation Project
About the Indigenous Teacher Preparation Project
CNM’s Indigenous Teacher Preparation Project is a paid, year-long program for individuals who want to teach in and for Native communities. Residents work alongside a mentor teacher while taking CNM licensure coursework. Participants receive a $35,000 stipend over their time in the classroom and become eligible for a New Mexico teacher dual licensure in Elementary (K-8) / Special Education (PreK-12) or Secondary (6-12) / Special Education (PreK-12). The program starts in August 2025.
- Bachelor’s degree from a regionally accredited college or university
- No current teaching license (Educational Assistant and Substitute licenses are allowed and encouraged)
- Commitment to teaching in a school serving Indigenous students and communities in New Mexico for three years
- Availability to begin the program in August 2025
If you are interested in training to become a teacher for Native communities or would like to host a CNM teacher resident in your classroom, please fill out the Interest Form below.
CNM is collaborating with schools and districts that can:
- Identify high-quality mentor teachers willing to host a resident for the academic school year
- Provide residents with opportunities to gain hands-on classroom experience while working alongside an experienced mentor teacher
- Consider hiring program graduates who successfully complete the residency and obtain licensure
- Support a sustainable, community-centered teacher preparation model that strengthens Native education
If you would like to partner with CNM, please contact Monika Whitmore at [email protected].
Indigenous teacher residency addresses the urgent need for well-prepared educators in Native communities by recruiting and supporting those committed to serving Native students. We are dedicated to building a community of teachers by recognizing and honoring Indigenous ways of learning and teaching.