Teachers College Innovations (TCI) combines professional development for first- and second-year teachers with web-based resources through its New Teacher Academy in efforts to provide an ongoing support network that yields high retention rates. Peter Cookson, president of this non-profit subsidiary of the College, points to research that suggests that new teachers often feel unsupported and unable to meet the needs of their students, resulting in half of them leaving the profession within their first three years. The online format of the Academy, he suggests, enables individuals to work from home at their own pace, connecting with other teachers for problem-solving and information exchange purposes while engaging in the "continuous learning, reflection, and sharing of experience."

The pilot program was implemented this past school year in Nassau County (NY) by its Board of Cooperative Educational Services and in the City's District 6. Approximately 100 teachers participated, and the Academy has received positive feedback thus far.

The article, entitled "Technology is One of Few Tools Left to Ease a Worsening Teacher Crunch", appeared in the June 1 edition of the E-School News .

Published Tuesday, Jun. 17, 2003