Beginning Teacher Support and Assessment
Merced/Mariposa BTSA Induction Program:
The Merced/Mariposa Beginning Teacher Support and Assessment (BTSA) Program is a two year Induction Program for teachers holding a preliminary credential. All holders of State Bill 2042 preliminary credentials issued after August 30, 2004 must clear their credentials by participating in an Induction Program. The BTSA program is structured to assist new teachers in the demonstration and application of the knowledge and skills acquired during the teacher preparation experience.
The Merced-Mariposa BTSA Induction Program supports teachers in twenty different districts within Merced and Mariposa counties. Our program uses the Formative Assessment for California Teachers (FACT) System. FACT focuses on the development of a teacher's practice, combining reflective assessment and support, to help them improve their skills. Through a structured series of critical thinking tasks, completed with the asistance of a trained Support Provider, Participating Teachers deepen their understanding and application of the California Standards for the Teaching Profession (CSTP), the Induction Program Standards (IPS), and the state-adopted academic content standards for students. The primary focus of the FACT System is the application of these standards through the ongoing process of planning and teaching lessons, reflecting on the results, and making informed changes to future practice, based on evidence.
State BTSA Website: http://www.btsa.ca.gov/