U of M's Institute for Urban Education

Hugh Zimmer of the Kansas City Star has an interesting recent editorial about the University of Missouri's Institute for Urban Education, a program specifically geared toward preparing aspiring teachers to embark on a four-year stint in the neediest urban school districts. Sounds a little like Teach for America, but the IUE seems to put the emphasis squarely on the long haul. I found this snippet of Zimmer's article particularly intriguing:

"Research indicates that in the fourth to sixth year of teaching, beginning teachers reach their stride and begin to have the greatest impact on increasing student achievement. Unfortunately, research also shows that many urban teachers leave the field within three years because of inadequate preparation and discouragement. The university program addresses these issues with support beyond graduation."

Zimmer doesn't go into a lot of detail about what that support actually entails, but good on the IUE to recognize that it's sorely needed. I've heard far too many stories of idealistic young people dropping out of programs like Teach for America because they're unprepared for the challenges they face. If the IUE's support system can convince newbie teachers to stick it out past that critical "fourth to sixth year," I'm all for it.