Program Overview

Introduction to the Donovan Urban Teaching Scholars Program

The Donovan Urban Teaching Scholars Program is an intensive one-year M.Ed. program that leads to licensure, focusing on preparing educators to flourish as K–12 teachers in urban schools. The program prioritizes critical inquiry, social justice education, and community building.

Program Overview

• The program begins in the summer semester and takes one year to complete.
• Students are expected to be on campus starting in the fall semester and continuing throughout the program.
• The cohort can participate in the May graduation.

FAQs

• When does the program start? How long does the program take?: The program starts in the summer semester and takes one year to complete.
• I'm working full-time at an urban school. Can I complete my practicum requirement at my job?: Yes, but the employer must be an approved partner and comply with the Department of Elementary and Secondary Schools (DESE) guidelines.
• Does Donovan still require the GRE as part of the application process?: No, the GRE is no longer required.
• Will Donovan offer info sessions or webinars? Will they be held in person or virtual?: Yes, webinars are hosted throughout the academic year.
• Can I meet with anyone to understand more about Donovan as I work through my application?: Yes, candidates can email to inquire about the program.
• Do I have to be admitted to both the Lynch School and Donovan to be in the Donovan program?: Yes, admission to both is required.
• How many people are typically admitted into Donovan per year?: Typically, around 30 Donovan students are admitted per year.
• When is the application due?: Applications are due by the priority deadline.
• How does the program distribute financial aid?: All Donovan Scholars receive 50% tuition remission, and additional grants, scholarships, and internships may be included.

Programs of Study

Donovan Scholars select from the following programs, which correlate with a state license:

• M.Ed. in Early Childhood Education
• M.Ed. in Elementary Education
• M.Ed. in Secondary Education
• M.Ed. in Moderate Support Needs / Pre-K and 5-12

Early Childhood Education

Learn to teach, challenge, and nurture a diverse range of Pre-K–2 students.

Elementary Education

The Elementary Education program is designed for students who wish to teach in grades 1-6.

Secondary Education

Students can select one of three secondary education degree programs: Master of Education (M.Ed.), Master of Arts in Teaching (M.A.T), and Master of Science in Teaching (M.S.T).

Moderate Special Needs

This program prepares teachers to work with PreK-8 and 5-12 students with mild to moderate disabilities.

Why the Donovan Program?

• Supportive Cohort Experience: Donovan Scholars participate in cohort-centered courses and professional development courses.
• Commitment to Justice in Education: The program commits to recruiting aspiring educators committed to urban education.
• Year-Long Practicum: Donovan Scholars are committed to pre- or full- practicum (student teaching) in partner urban schools.
• Inquiry-Based Urban Teacher Education: The program integrates interactive year-long shared inquiry seminars, classroom-based research, and exploration of the relationships between theory and practice.
• Alumni Community and Engagement: Strong alumni mentoring and induction opportunities are provided for Donovan Scholars after graduation.

Partners

Select school and community partners include:

• Boston Public Schools
• Epiphany School and Early Learning Center
• Campus Without Walls
• Somerville High School
• Snowden International School
• Bridge Boston Charter School
• Neighborhood House Charter

Financial Aid

All Donovan Scholars receive a minimum of 50% tuition remission. In addition, the Lynch School Graduate Admissions and Urban Outreach Initiatives Offices work with each Donovan Scholar to create a generous financial package that may include additional grants, internships, and scholarships.

Alumni

Distinguished Donovan Alumni include:

• Ashlyn Crossfield '18, High School Social Studies Teacher, O'Bryant School of Math & Science
• Lisa Cullington '11, Associate Provost for Academic Programs, Sacred Heart University
• Kevin Dua '12, Humanities Teacher and Instructional Coach, Phoenix Charter Academy
• Ashana Hurd '03, Assistant Dean of Urban Outreach Initiatives and Professional Development, Boston College
• Silvy Lafayette '05, Director of Teaching and Learning: Assessment, Research, and Evaluation, St. Louis Park Public Schools
• Bianca Passero '20, Director of Academic Services and Advising, Steppingstone
• Seraj Sidibe '23, History Teacher, Mary Lyon K-12 School
• Alyssa Strykers '16, Assistant Director/Assistant Principal, Inwood Academy for Leadership Charter School
• Thu-Hang Tran-Peou '09, 6th Grade Vietnamese Dual Language Humanities, Boston Public Schools

Application and Deadlines

• Application Priority Deadline: January 7
• Resume: To be uploaded to the online application form, including academic history, relevant work experience, licenses, social justice-related experience, language skills, and research experience or publications.
• Personal Statement: In 1,000-1,500 words, double-spaced, describing academic and professional goals, relevant experience, and future plans.
• Letters of Recommendation: Two letters are required, with at least one from an academic source.
• Interview: Qualifying candidates will be invited to participate in an interview as part of the admissions process.
• Transcripts: Unofficial transcripts are accepted for the application review process, with official transcripts required upon admission.