Become a Teacher in Buffalo, NY

Who We Are
Buffalo Urban Teaching Fellows is an “earn and learn” teacher training program. We provide aspiring teachers with a paid role in a school and access to tuition assistance – as well as development opportunities and a cohort experience – while they pursue certification and transition to a teaching career, making a meaningful difference in the lives of local students.

Who Our Students Need
Passionate and talented teachers are critical to ensuring that all students in Buffalo have access to engaging, high-quality education experiences that result in academic success and provide the opportunity for socio-economic mobility. We are looking for individuals who are highly motivated to launch a teaching career in Buffalo’s district or non-profit charter schools. Perhaps you have been working in education as a paraprofessional, teacher’s assistant, or uncertified teacher, and are ready to take the next step. Or maybe you’re a recent graduate or current college senior who wants to share your passion for learning with students. Have you had a successful career and now desire to pursue a more fulfilling path? Whatever your background may be, we are looking for passionate, talented people who believe that every student can achieve at the highest level, and are committed to helping them get there.

We are currently seeking candidates to teach all subjects and grade levels.

Benefits of Buffalo Urban Teaching Fellows
Fellows receive support throughout the certification process and into the early years of their teaching careers. When you become a Buffalo Urban Teaching Fellow, we’ll help you select the local certification program that is the best match for your career goals and personal circumstances and guide you through the enrollment process. As part of a cohort made up of other talented future teachers from diverse backgrounds, you’ll have the opportunity to work in a school, gaining practical experience - and earning a paycheck - while completing certification coursework. Once you are certified, you’ll move into a lead teacher role and receive support and additional training to help you grow during your early years in the classroom. Fellows may also receive financial support to help offset the cost of tuition and certification.

~Financial Support and Compensation – As a Fellow, you will have the opportunity to work in a school and earn compensation while completing your certification program. Once you become a teacher, your salary will increase to a full teacher’s salary and benefits, starting around $55,000. You may also benefit from tuition discounts, fee waivers and scholarship opportunities.
~Flexible Certification Options – You will choose from multiple certification programs to select the option that is the best fit for your unique needs. There are full-time and part-time programs available, as well as virtual, in-person and hybrid models. We’ll help you navigate this decision and successfully enroll in your program of choice so you can complete the coursework necessary to earn certification.
~Hands-On Experience – Working in a school is an opportunity to observe experienced teachers while starting to put what you are learning in your courses into practice. You’ll gradually take on more responsibility, preparing you to lead your own classroom once you are certified.
~Development Opportunities – You’ll hone your craft over time with the support of our coaches, who will be at your side throughout the first few years of teaching to help you continue to learn and grow as an educator.
~Cohort Model – As a Teaching Fellow, you’ll be part of a cohort of individuals going through a shared experience who will be a network you can turn to when you need support or advice. You’ll also have opportunities to build your local education network through professional learning communities, affinity groups and cohort events.

Buffalo Urban Teaching Fellows Eligibility Requirements
~Must have bachelor’s degree by June 2023
~Must currently be authorized to work in the U.S.
~Must not yet be a licensed teacher in New York
~Minimum 2.5 cumulative undergraduate GPA strongly preferred*
*GPA requirement can be reviewed upon request and a limited number of exceptions may be made.

Ready to explore a rewarding career as a certified teacher? Start your Buffalo Urban Teaching Fellows application today! teachbuffalo.org/butf