OUR APPROACH

 
 

DESIGN PRINCIPLES

At CQA Next, we have intentionally designed our program to move beyond and disrupt traditional teacher preparation by weaving together practice, coaching, and identity development into a coherent, purpose-driven journey. Each design principle is rooted in our belief that great teachers are not found but intentionally grown through a cycle of immersive practice, sustained mentorship, and deep reflection. By aligning classroom responsibility with targeted coaching and opportunities to cultivate equity-centered professional identities, we have created a residency experience that is both rigorous and supportive. Together, these principles form the foundation of a model that prepares residents not only to master the technical aspects of teaching, but also to embrace their role as community-rooted educators committed to student success.

Immersive Practice Model

We believe that aspiring teachers grow through a deliberate cycle of practice, observation, academic learning, and reflection. Residents engage in a cohesive, immersive experience that integrates independent teaching, targeted observation, and rigorous coursework into one continuous arc of professional growth.

What this looks like in action -  From day one, residents assume instructional responsibility—teaching core content weekly, leading classroom routines, and gradually increasing their load to a minimum of 3 days per week by end of Year 2. Simultaneously, they observe lead teachers with a focus on developmentally aligned techniques and complete learning modules tied to their arc of development. Each component is intentionally sequenced to build competence, confidence, and instructional judgment.

Specialized Coaching

We believe that coaching should develop a teacher’s mindset and skillset—not just their next lesson. Residents receive sustained, high-impact coaching that is relational, personalized, and focused on long-term teacher development.

What this looks like in action - Clinical Coaches co-plan lessons, model instructional moves, and provide weekly one-on-one coaching tailored to each resident’s goals. Through cycles of real-time feedback, strategic reflection, and continuous support, residents are empowered to refine their craft and grow into capable, equity-driven lead teachers.

Purpose-Driven Professional Identity

We believe that great teaching is grounded in purpose, cultural humility, and a deep connection to community. Residents are supported in developing a professional identity rooted in equity, reflection, and a commitment to students and families.

What this looks like in action - Through intentional coursework, cohort dialogue, community engagement, and leadership development, residents build the habits and dispositions needed to thrive in diverse school environments. They learn to lead classrooms that affirm student brilliance, build trust with families, and foster inclusive, high-impact learning.

OUTCOMES

At the end of 2 years, residents will understand:

  • Critical developmental milestones of children at different ages.

  • Inquiry-driven instruction that promotes exploration and critical thinking.

  • Theories, principles, and concepts underlying various disciplines, including science of reading, math, and writing.

  • The instructional cycle, from design to assessment. 

  • Differentiated needs of English Language Learners (ELLs) and students with special learning needs.

At the end of 2 years, residents will believe:

“I have the responsibility and capability to change a child’s life trajectory.” 

“My job is to work voraciously to ignite students’ potential.”

“I see failure as an opportunity for growth.”

“Diversity can drive success.”

“Every parent wants their child to succeed and they want partners in making that happen.”

“Relationships and clear communication are the keys to learning -- not curriculum, strict structures, or consequences.”

At the end of 2 years, residents will be able to:

  • Keenly observe kids and look for patterns that help shape their instructional approach. 

  • Design and deliver lessons that have purposeful learning objectives.

  • Teach across disciplines, drawing on content and methods knowledge.

  • Collect, track, and analyze student data to set ambitious goals and plan for improved student outcomes.

  • Adapt instructional approaches based on observation and student performance data.

  • Communicate clearly with all students and families.

A DAY IN THE LIFE

 

Click to see a day in the life of a CQA Next Resident.

 

FAQS

  • CQA Next Residents spend the majority of their time in classrooms directly applying the skills and concepts learned inside of their coursework as they work alongside lead teachers. Residents can expect to have two evenings a week where they engage in their graduate studies, collaborate with their cohort on immersive planning and projects, and receive targeted coaching and development from the CQA Next Residency Coaches.

  • All coursework will happen at the CQA campus.

  • Yes! Over the course of the 2 years in the program, you will have a myriad of opportunities to teach a class alone. CQA Next adopts a gradual release model where residents, coaches and lead teachers collaborate on what instructional components will be released to residents and when. This approach allows for individual residents to gradually take on classroom responsibilities as their skill levels increase.

  • When accepted into the CQA Next Program, the school leaders and CQA Next team work together to identify the classrooms and lead teachers that residents will be paired with.

  • Our goal is to be able to place many of our residents as lead teachers within the CQA community. We also have relationships with charter schools throughout the city with whom we will work with to help residents find right-fit roles if not staying with CQA.

  • At the end of year 2, CQA Next Residents will receive a Master of Science degree in Childhood Education and Special Education and be recommended for a NYS Teaching Credential by Touro University. There is reciprocity with many other states but this is not a “national credential.” This is not a program to become Nationally Board Certified through the National Board for Professional Teaching Standards.

  • At CQA Next, we do not offer an accelerated pathway option. We strongly believe that our two-year program provides the right amount of support and pacing to ensure that teachers graduate fully prepared and confident to be effective and successful lead teachers.

  • Yes. If you complete the residency program and are hired by CQA, we require a 3-year commitment to working in our schools.