Teaching Fellows
The Dexter Southfield Teaching Fellows Program offers the opportunity to work in an independent school setting alongside experienced faculty and administrators. This program takes a thoughtful approach to training future teachers and offers a unique blend of mentorship, experiential learning, and community engagement.
My most profound realization during my time as a Fellow at Dexter Southfield was the pivotal role of community in education. The nurturing and impactful atmosphere not only facilitated my growth as an educator but also empowered me to craft meaningful learning experiences for the next generation of leaders in our society.Peter Brutschea
Dexter Southfield Teaching Fellow 2021-2023
Working as a Teaching Fellow allowed me to experience, through trial and error, what it takes to be a successful teacher. It gave me the ability to shape my classroom management style, craft my own lessons, lead explorative projects, and become the teacher I am today.Trevor Schofield
Dexter Southfield Teaching Fellow 2022-2023
Criteria
Dexter Southfield seeks Teaching Fellows committed to taking full advantage of learning in an independent school environment, to collaborating with and learning from seasoned faculty members, and to immersing themselves in the School community. Applicants hold the equivalent of a four-year degree and are pursuing a career in education. The program is typically two years; however, there is flexibility to adjust the program to one or three years.
Program Curriculum
Dexter Southfield’s Teaching Fellows work with mentor teachers and the program coordinator to tailor the program for a meaningful experience. Weekly touchpoints with the program coordinator ensure ongoing support and guidance.
In the first year, a Fellow typically spends the first few months of the school year observing and then works with the lead teacher to take on more responsibility in the classroom. First-year Fellows may dedicate their time to planning and co-teaching one specific class, while others may assist in two or three courses regularly. In the second year, Fellows increase their responsibility by taking on more classes and developing lesson plans aligned with Dexter Southfield’s curriculum.
Expectations
At the heart of Dexter Southfield is our community. Our faculty and staff wear many hats, and we ask the same of our Teaching Fellows. From advising clubs to coaching teams, there are innumerable enrichment opportunities in which Fellows may contribute to the lives of our students outside of the classroom. In addition to teaching, Fellows are required to coach at least two seasons of the year.
Benefits
Teaching Fellows at Dexter Southfield receive a stipend and earn comprehensive employee benefits while working towards their master's degree, which is reimbursed by the School. In addition to the financial benefits, Fellows relish the opportunity to work in the classroom alongside experienced teachers in a caring, supportive environment.
Application Process
Each year, applications open in late January and remain open until all positions are filled.
For questions about the Teaching Fellows application or program, contact Chad Thompson, Assistant Head of Lower School and Teaching Fellows Program Coordinator.