How the TIR Position Continues to Evolve

The Physics Teacher Education Coalition (PhysTEC) has identified a Teacher-in-Residence (TIR) as one of the key components that is shared by successful teacher preparation programs across the country. Originally, PhysTEC envisioned the TIR position to be a one-year, full-time appointment of an accomplished, in-service, physics teacher. The TIR would fill multiple roles including recruiter, advisor, instructor, course and curriculum developer, LA/TA leader, mentor, professional community leader, program coordinator, professional development facilitator, Ambassador to School of Education, and Ambassador to School Districts. As PhysTEC has grown and evolved, so has the role of the TIR. Several PhysTEC sites have implemented and utilized a part-time TIR model. Several sites have retained their TIR for more than one year and some sites have used two or more TIRs working in cooperation to perform the previously mentioned roles. Site leaders and/or TIRs from several sites will discuss their TIR model. This discussion will include how the TIR is recruited and selected, the arrangements that are made with the TIR's home school district, the integration of a TIR into an existing physics teacher preparation program, and possible strategies for sustaining the TIR position.