Are you an energetic, lifelong learner committed to staying current in your field—to challenging yourself and your students? Are you looking for career-enhancing professional development in your discipline, a community of high school and university instructors who offer the same course? How about the benefit that comes with sharing insights and expertise with colleagues?

If yes, teaching a U of M course through College in the Schools might be the perfect fit for you!

Application Deadline and Components

Deadline

The deadline is March 30, 2024.

Apply early, as some courses have a limited number of new instructors who are accepted each year. Applications to replace current CIS teachers are accepted at any time. Please contact cisapply@umn.edu for more information.

Components

Only complete applications will be reviewed. A complete application includes:

  • Teacher information
  • Official transcript(s)
  • Self-assessment of qualifications
  • Demonstration of advanced, relevant knowledge
  • Resume
  • Letter of recommendation from your principal
  • Cover letter

Information about each of these items, as well as about the review, interview, and decision process, please refer to the Instructor Applicant Handbook.

Instructor Qualifications

Each University department that offers a course through College in the Schools has minimum instructor qualifications. Consult the Instructor Applicant Handbook to learn more about your intended course and if we are currently accepting applications for that course.

Instructor Role

To follow is a list of the key responsibilities of a U of M teaching specialist.

Support Students

  • Teach the University course at your high school
  • Ensure that students understand how to register and withdraw
  • Monitor student progress and advise students if they are struggling
  • Confirm that students meet student eligibility criteria

Contribute Your Expertise to Other Teachers

  • Participate in U of M faculty-led, discipline-specific professional development activities for as long as you teach the U of M course
  • Share resources and teaching materials with your colleagues in the CIS cohort

Work with the College in the Schools Office

  • Respond to requests for information
  • Submit syllabi, grades, and course evaluations on time
  • Participate in the evaluation of the CIS program

Professional Development

College in the Schools teachers participate in professional development throughout their tenure as U of M teaching specialists. This ensures University quality in the classes they teach in their high schools, and keeps teachers abreast of recent developments in the discipline and aware of any changes to the course. To learn more, view the Student Field Days and Professional Workshops Calendar.

Contact Information

Have questions? We're here to help!
Contact the CIS applications team at cisapply@umn.edu.

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