PUSD partners with Fresno Pacific University

Porterville Unified School District is partnering with Fresno Pacific University to create a program for adults to earn a teaching credential. Classes for the credential program will take place in both Porterville and Fresno Pacific University campus in Visalia. The overall program includes a teacher residency program with directed student teaching and a program for short-term staff permits (STSP) and provisional internship permits (PIPS) working towards an internship and independent student teaching.

The directed student teaching program will offer guaranteed opportunities to substitute teach every week at a higher substitute pay rate, up to a $500 book reimbursement for each semester, a district-issued ipad or Chromebook for use in the classroom and courses, access to PUSD resources and workshops, priority interviews with PUSD upon completion of the residency program, and the ability for an individual to finish the credential in one year.

The independent student teaching program allows an individual to work during the day and take classes at night to earn a credential in two years, reduce traveling time with classes available in Porterville, access to PUSD resources and workshops, and classroom support from PUSD instructional coaches and FPU mentors.

For questions on the program or to schedule an appointment and begin the application process, please contact Michelle Blancas at (559) 302-4100 or by email (michelle.blancas@fresno.edu). You may also apply online at https:// apply.fresno.edu/app/ grad/start or interview with Teacher Education faculty at the FPU Visalia campus.