U-46 intern program would create admin pipeline

This fall, Elgin Area School District U-46 will start an internship program — not for high school or college students — but for current employees aspiring to become administrators.

The two-year program is a way for the district to mentor future principals, deans or superintendents, and promote from within when positions become available, Superintendent Jose Torres said.

“We want to give teachers who have already gotten their Type 75 (Illinois Administrative Certificate) the opportunity to gain administrative experience,” Torres said. “Our teachers are at a disadvantage when they compete against other teachers because we are a flat organization and there aren't a lot of positions to get experience in.”

But the internship program does not have the support of some union members. Elgin Teachers Association President Kathryn Castle said the program is another example of the district spending money, while at the same time denying teacher raises or funds for additional resources. The two sides continue to negotiate a teacher contract.

“It's not a good thing to keep telling people we have to be careful with how we spend our money when they are making financial commitments that teachers don't get a chance to vote on,” Castle said. “We have to know what they are funding so we know that's why they need to spend. That's the right way to do it.”

Torres said the program is an investment, adding the goal is to create a pipeline or bench so that 90 percent of the district's administrative positions are filled internally. An orientation session attracted about 70 people; Torres said the district would select between eight and 10 teachers to participate in the two-year program.

“If I have retirees next year, I am going to have to hire from outside of the district,” Torres said. “This is an investment in the district. We want people who know U-46 and its values, commitment and culture.”

Once an intern completes the program and is selected for an administrative role, the employee is asked to commit another three years to the district. The superintendent and two current administrators will run the program. Interns will be paid their current salary, plus a $1,000 stipend, according to the job description posted on the district's website. The district initially will use local funding before seeking grant support based on the success of the first year, Torres said.