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Cultivating the Next Generation of Transformative Educators

(STONE MOUNTAIN, GA) -Today, the DeKalb County School District (DCSD) announces the official launch of its IGNITE DeKalb Teacher Residency Program, which is a signature initiative of Superintendent Dr. Devon Q. Horton to address the critical need for qualified educators in the District.

The newly launched website, available at https://www.dekalbschoolsga.org/ignite/, has already garnered significant attention. During the program’s unadvertised soft launch this weekend, over 400 individuals expressed interest.

Only 50 slots will be available in the initial cohort set to begin in January 2024. Candidates will be chosen through a competitive selection process. A new cohort is set to commence every six months starting in June 2024.

Prospective IGNITE candidates must hold a bachelor’s degree in a non-education field with a minimum 2.5 GPA from an accredited college. Upon program completion, cohort graduates commit to teaching in DCSD for five years. Some of the key benefits of IGNITE include:

  • Education and Training: Candidates receive a free master’s degree and extensive training with no out-of-pocket expenses.

  • Financial Support: A $30,000 living stipend is provided during the training year.

  • Job Security: Successful candidates are guaranteed a teaching job in DCSD with a starting salary of at least $57,000.