UCR and San Bernardino Launch Tuition-Free Residency to Tackle Teacher Shortage
The one-year program offers full tuition, a $32,000 stipend, mentorship, and a guaranteed job—training diverse educators to meet urgent staffing needs in local schools.
The University of California, Riverside and the San Bernardino school district are addressing the teacher shortage by creating a one-year, tuition-free credential program. Nearly 3 out of 4 schools in U.S. districts struggle to hire qualified educators, according to the National Center for Education Statistics School Pulse Panel.
The resident program will fully cover tuition, provide a living stipend and guarantee a teaching job for successful students. UCR will welcome 35 participants for its inaugural residency, with another 35 in 2026.
After completing the program, participants are committed to teach within the San Bernardino school district and can focus on their career without the worry of student debt.
“Across California and the nation, we are facing a shortage of qualified teachers, especially in critical areas like special education, dual language instruction, math and science,” said Frances Valdovinos, assistant dean and director of teacher education at UCR’s School of Education, in a press release. “This partnership gives future teachers an unprecedented level of support while helping San Bernardino schools meet urgent staffing needs.”
The program will begin the same year the district expects to have about 190 retirements and resignations.
Participants will receive a stipend valued at approximately $32,000, which includes direct financial support and payment to mentor teachers. The residency includes a close mentorship with District Cooperating Teachers throughout the entire academic year.
The mentorship model will give student participants a deeper and immersive experience of a school year.
“Residents will not just observe – they will live the full cycle of a school year,” said Morales, director of human resources for SBCUSD, in a press release. “It’s an investment in real-world preparation.”
The residency is being funded through a grant from the California Commission on Teacher Credentialing. The district and UCR will recruit residents that reflect the demographics of the community, including future teachers from underrepresented backgrounds.
“We want students to see themselves in their teacher,” said Valdovinos. “Representation matters, and it strengthens the connection between schools and families.”
The first residency will begin in the summer and its goal is to fill teaching roles in high-need areas and to cultivate passionate, committed educators who will stay in the district.
“We’re setting these future teachers up for success – and helping our students get the high-quality education they deserve,” Valdovinos said.
For more information about the residency program or to apply, visit the UCR School of Education website.
Anthony was born and raised in Pomona. After a decade in education, he now writes for Southern California News Group, LA Times, and LA Taco. He recently moved to Riverside with his wife Evelyn.
