Rio Helping AZ Schools Fill Teacher Vacancies

This Scottsdale Independent story by reporter Melissa Fittro provides an update on Arizona’s K-12 teacher shortage and how Rio Salado’s Teacher-In-Residence (TIR) program is helping students and working professionals with a bachelor’s degree fill vacancies through a fast-track teacher certification program, which includes paid employment opportunities in the classroom, so students can earn an income while completing the coursework.

Fittro interviewed Rio Salado Faculty Chair of Educator Preparation Programs Dr. Jennifer Gresko and Scottsdale Unified School District Certified Staffing Coordinator Diane Ellett, who talked about the partnership between Rio Salado and school districts to meet the increasing demand for certified teachers.

“With the teacher shortage at hand, it helps that pipeline in bringing teachers to the classroom,” said Gresko.


Rio Salado’s TIR program provides a convenient and cost-effective way for qualified candidates to transition into a K-12 teaching career through a two-year certification program.

TIR candidates are paired with a partnering Arizona school district, to work full-time and receive the same salary and benefits of fully-certified classroom teachers.

Ready to answer the call? If you have a passion for teaching and want to learn more about Rio Salado’s TIR program, visit this Teacher Education web page or call 480-517-8140 to speak to a program Outreach Specialist.

Attend a free orientation session in-person or via webinar to learn more about our teacher education programs.