NYC Teaching Fellows 2026: Become a Fully Certified NYC Public School Teacher by Fall 2026 (Starting Salary $71,314+)

Are you ready to launch a meaningful career in education while making a direct impact in high-need communities? The NYC Teaching Fellows Program 2026 offers a highly selective, fully supported pathway to become a certified teacher in New York City Public Schools by Fall 2026.

Designed for talented professionals and recent graduates from diverse backgrounds, the program prepares participants to teach in critical shortage subject areas such as math, science, special education, and bilingual education—while earning a full-time salary and working toward a subsidized master’s degree.

If you are passionate about educational equity, student success, and leadership in urban education, this opportunity could redefine your career trajectory.

About NYC Teaching Fellows

NYC Teaching Fellows is a rigorous alternative certification program operated by NYC Public Schools—the largest public school system in the United States, serving approximately 1 million students across more than 1,600 schools.

The program recruits individuals committed to addressing educational inequities in underserved communities. Fellows receive intensive training, ongoing coaching, and professional development while working full-time as teachers.

By Fall 2026, selected candidates will be placed in NYC Public Schools classrooms and begin their careers as certified educators.

Program Structure and Timeline

Summer 2026 – Intensive Pre-Service Training

Participants begin with a 7-week intensive summer training program designed to build foundational teaching competencies, including:

• Instructional planning

• Classroom management

• Curriculum development

• Student assessment strategies

• Equity-centered pedagogy

Fellows receive a stipend during this training period.

September 2026 – Full-Time Teaching Placement

In Fall 2026, Fellows:

• Begin teaching full-time in NYC Public Schools

• Earn a starting salary of $71,314+ per year

• Receive full employee benefits

• Continue working toward initial teaching certification

Graduate Education Component

Participants simultaneously pursue a subsidized master’s degree in education at a partner institution.

This dual-track model allows Fellows to:

• Gain hands-on classroom experience

• Complete graduate coursework

• Earn certification

• Develop advanced pedagogical skills

Compensation and Benefits

The NYC Teaching Fellows program offers a competitive financial and professional package:

Starting Salary

$71,314+ per year as a full-time NYC Public Schools teacher

Summer Training Stipend

Participants receive financial support during the 7-week summer training period.

Full Benefits Package

• Medical insurance

• Dental insurance

• Vision insurance

• Pension plan

• 401(k)

• Commuter benefits

• Tuition assistance

• Student loan assistance

Professional Development

• Ongoing mentorship

• Coaching support

• Access to a network of dedicated educators

• Structured professional growth pathway

High-Need Subject Areas

NYC Teaching Fellows recruits candidates for shortage subject areas, including:

• Mathematics

• Science

• Special Education

• Bilingual Education

Specific subject eligibility requirements may apply. Applicants are encouraged to review subject-specific criteria HERE.

Who Should Apply?

NYC Teaching Fellows seeks candidates who demonstrate:

• Commitment to educational equity

• Resilience and adaptability

• Growth mindset

• Passion for student success

• Willingness to work in high-need communities

Importantly, no prior teaching experience is required.

Eligibility Requirements

To apply for the Fall 2026 cohort, candidates must:

• Hold a bachelor’s degree by May 31, 2026

• Have a minimum undergraduate GPA of 2.5

• Be fluent in written and spoken English

• Have permanent authorization to work in the United States

• Never have participated in a program leading to U.S. or Puerto Rico teacher certification

• Meet additional subject-specific requirements where applicable

Why Choose NYC Public Schools?

NYC Public Schools is the largest public school system in the U.S., employing:

• 75,000+ teachers

• Thousands of counselors, social workers, administrators, and staff

The system reflects New York City’s vibrant diversity and is deeply committed to equity, inclusion, and excellence.

By joining NYC Teaching Fellows, participants become part of a workforce dedicated to ensuring every student is seen, supported, and set up to thrive.

Equal Opportunity Employer

The NYC Department of Education is committed to nondiscrimination and equal opportunity in employment and education. Opportunities are provided without regard to race, color, religion, ethnicity, national origin, citizenship status, age, marital status, disability, sexual orientation, gender, military status, or other protected characteristics.

How to Apply

Find the application link HERE.

Click HERE to find the program information.

Interested candidates are encouraged to apply early due to the competitive and highly selective nature of the program.

Discover more job opportunities on OFY HERE.