What is the Hunt Alternate Route Emergency Teaching Scholarship?
Have you ever wanted to become a teacher but didn’t have the time or money to complete a traditional teacher preparation program? Perhaps you already have a bachelor’s degree in another field and are looking for a career change. If so, the Hunt Alternate Route Emergency Teaching Scholarship may be an excellent option worth exploring.
This scholarship program was created by the Hunt Family Foundation to help address teacher shortages across the United States by funding alternative certification pathways into the teaching profession. By providing financial assistance and support, the Hunt ARets Scholarship makes it possible for talented individuals from diverse backgrounds to enter the classroom as fully certified teachers.
In this blog post, we will provide an in-depth overview of the Hunt ARets Scholarship by covering the following topics:
- Eligibility requirements
- Benefits of the scholarship
- The alternative certification process
- Participating states and programs
- Application guidelines
- Scholarship expectations
- Frequently asked questions
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Eligibility Requirements for the Hunt ARets Scholarship
To qualify for the Hunt ARets Scholarship, applicants must meet the basic eligibility requirements:
- Have a bachelor’s degree from an accredited college or university
- Be eligible to obtain elementary or secondary teaching certification in your state through an alternative certification program
- Commit to teaching for at least three years in a high-need subject or school upon completing the alternative certification process
- Demonstrate financial need for assistance with certification program costs
- Pass a background check
- Be a U.S. citizen or eligible non-citizen
The Hunt Foundation aims to support individuals from diverse ethnic, racial, and educational backgrounds for careers in education. Candidates with exceptional life experiences and perspectives who can serve as role models are strongly encouraged to apply.
Benefits of Receiving the Hunt Scholarship
If selected as a Hunt Scholar, recipients will receive the following benefits as part of this prestigious award:
- Up to $30,000 to cover tuition, fees, licensing exams, and other costs of participating in an alternative teacher certification program
- Academic advising and mentoring throughout the certification process
- Assistance securing a teaching position upon completion at a high-need school
- Invitations to regional and national networking events with other Hunt Scholars
- Ongoing professional development opportunities and membership in an alumni network
This generous funding makes it possible to transition into teaching without shouldering a heavy financial burden from certification coursework. Recipients commit to teaching for 3 years in exchange for the scholarship, helping address staffing shortages for years to come.
The Alternative Certification Process
To become certified through an alternative pathway, teachers must complete a specialized accelerated program instead of a traditional university program. These vary by state but typically involve:
Classroom Training
Coursework provides instruction in content area knowledge, classroom management strategies, curriculum development, assessment techniques, and other essential topics. Training is often hybrid/online.
Performance Assessments
Candidates must pass rigorous tests of subject matter knowledge and teaching skills before entering a classroom as the teacher of record.
Mentoring
Experienced educators offer guidance, feedback, and support throughout the provisional certification period to help transitioning teachers improve their practice.
Student Teaching
A hands-on clinical experience helps apply theory to practice with supervision before assuming full responsibilities.
Programs often take 1-2 years to complete while allowing participants to work full-time. The Hunt Scholarship supports candidates enrolled in alternative routes operated by respected state agencies, non-profits, and universities.
Participating States and Programs
The Hunt ARets Scholarship is currently available to residents of 20 states across the U.S. through partnerships with 38 high-quality alternative certification programs:
- Arizona, Arkansas, California, Colorado, Delaware, Florida, Georgia, Illinois, Louisiana, Maryland, Massachusetts, Michigan, Mississippi, Missouri, Nevada, New Jersey, New Mexico, New York, North Carolina, Pennsylvania
Some top programs Hunt Scholars frequently attend include Teach For America, American Board for Certification of Teacher Excellence, New York City Teaching Collaborative, NYCTFellows, Massachusetts Transition to Teaching, and State Troops to Teachers.
Candidates research certification options in their state/region to determine the best fit. Hunt advisors help scholars navigate choices and streamline the application process. No matter the program, scholars gain accredited certification and employment prospects.
Application Guidelines and Timeline
The Hunt ARets Scholarship application opens annually in October and must be submitted by late January. Here’s an overview of the application process:
- Gather transcripts, resume, letters of recommendation
- Write a 650+ word personal statement on the desire to teach and the scholarship’s benefits
- Complete the online application form with basic information
- Interview with local Hunt representative if selected as semifinalist (Feb-Mar)
- Notification of final award decisions by mid-April
- Acceptance requires full participation in summer training (Jun-Jul)
- Start alternative certification program that fall semester
A complete application profile showcasing academic achievement, community involvement, and motivation to teach serves applicants best. Interview preparation is key to advancing. Hunt staff provides tips for success throughout the competitive selection process.
Scholarship Expectations as a Hunt Scholar
In exchange for the generous financial support and resources received, Hunt Scholars commit to the following obligations upon completing their alternative certification program:
- Obtain full state teaching licensure/certification in their intended content area and grade level
- Teach full-time for three years in a high-need school as determined by Hunt staff
- Participate in virtual and in-person professional development activities with other scholars
- Submit annual reports on teaching experience and career plans/progress
- Remain in good standing academically and legally, and continue working with mentor teachers
This ensures funds positively impact high-poverty communities through scholars’ service. The Hunt Foundation aims for 90% or more scholars to meet their obligations each year. Multiple compliance phases provide ongoing guidance and support to scholars.
Frequently Asked Questions about the Hunt ARets Scholarship
Here are answers to some common questions applicants may have:
What subjects/grade levels can I teach with this scholarship?
Applicants can pursue certification in elementary, middle, or high school subject areas experiencing teacher shortages. This includes core classes like math, science, special education plus foreign languages, and career/technical areas. Hunt works to place scholars where there is the highest need.
Is relocation assistance provided if I need to move for the program or job?
No, the scholarship does not directly cover relocation costs if you must move to another state or city for your alternative certification program or teaching job. However, many Hunt partner programs offer their own relocation stipends or housing support during training periods. Location is an important consideration when choosing programs.
How competitive is the selection process? What are my odds?
The Hunt Scholarship is prestigious and receives thousands of applications annually. Historical selection rates are approximately 5-7% of applicants, making it competitive. Factors like strength of personal statement, fit with eligibility criteria, and interview performance influence decisions. With thorough preparation, dedicated individuals stand a good chance.
Can I defer acceptance of the award to a future year if needed?
No, deferrals are not permitted. Hunt Scholars must participate fully in the summer training and begin their certification program and service commitment in the year they are selected. An alternative would be reapplying in future cycles if personal/family circumstances change and preclude beginning that year.
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What if I’m unable to complete my service obligation?
Scholars who do not meet the 3-year teaching commitment for reasons within their control, like voluntarily leaving the profession, are required to repay the full cost of the scholarship on a pro-rated basis. Hunt works closely with scholars experiencing hardships to find solutions enabling them to fulfill their duty while maintaining well-being.
How do I get in touch with a Hunt representative for additional questions?
The best way to contact Hunt staff directly for any other inquiries is by emailing scholars@hunt-foundation.org. Include your name, phone number, location, and a brief question or request. Someone will respond to guide and assist you further in the application and certification process.
