What is Buff Residency?
A clinical teaching opportunity that offers aspiring educators a meaningful year-long learning experience where they co-teach alongside a skilled mentor, gaining authentic classroom experience, and building their confidence to lead their own classroom.
Benefits of Completing the Buff Teacher Residency
- Real Classroom Experience — Before You Graduate
- Co-Teach with a Skilled Host Teacher
- Build Confidence & Classroom Readiness
- Get Personalized Coaching & Feedback
- Stand Out as a Top Hiring Candidate
- Earn While You Learn
Who Should Apply?
The Buff Teacher Residency Program is designed for WT education majors who will be ready for clinical teaching during the 2027–2028 school year. Students should work with their Education Advisor to confirm eligibility and ensure they are on track to complete required coursework before beginning residency.
Buff Residency Application 2027-2028
Step 1 | Complete the Online Application
- Complete the Buff Teacher Residency Interest Application by February 1, 2027.
- Application: https://forms.cloud.microsoft/r/RpXLfzp8yS
Step 2 | Submit Your Video of Interest
- After submitting the application, students will receive an email invitation to a personal shared OneDrive folder within two business days.
- Students must upload a 3–7-minute video of interest addressing their passion for teaching, desire to support students, relevant experiences, and professional dispositions needed to be a successful resident teacher.
Video Deadline: February 1, 2027
Step 3 | Complete Certification Testing Requirements
- Applicants must pass their initial content certification exam by March 12, 2027. Additional testing information will be communicated directly to applicants through their WT student email.
Step 4 | Application Screening & Selection
- WT Educator Preparation Program (EPP) staff and faculty will review applications to determine eligibility and select candidates for available residency placements.
- Placement opportunities are contingent upon district needs, certification areas, and host teacher availability. Submission of an application does not guarantee acceptance or placement.
Important Dates
- February 1, 2027: Application and Video of Interest Due
- March 12, 2027: Initial Content Certification Exam Deadline
- August 2027: Residency Begins
- May 2028: Residency Concludes
Eligible Content Areas
For Enhanced Residency Certificate
| Content Area | Content Area | Content Area |
|---|---|---|
| Core Subjects - STR (EC-6) | ELAR (7-12) | Speech (7-12) |
| Core Subjects - STR (4-8) | History (7-12) | Theatre (EC-12) |
| ELAR - STR (4-8) | Journalism (7-12) | Special Education (EC-12) |
| Social Studies (4-8) | Physical Science (6-12) | Dance (6-12) |
| ELAR/Social Studies - STR (4-8) | Science (7-12) | Mathematics (7-12) |
| Mathematics (4-8) | Social Studies (7-12) | Art (EC-12) |
| Mathematics/Science (4-8) | Life Science (7-12) | Languages Other Than English - Spanish (EC-12) |
| Science (4-8) | Music (EC-12) | |
| Physical Education (EC-12) |
Make an Impact!
Join WTAMU's Buff Teacher Residency Program.
A year of experience. A lifetime of impact.
Apply now to become a Buff Resident and launch your teaching career.
