The program consists of three phases:

PHASE I: CURRICULUM TRAINING
Candidates must meet TOPP fall or spring application deadlines and application requirements. Candidates attend a pre-admission session/personal interview followed by an orientation session. Curriculum Preparation training sessions are held once a year in the spring. Curriculum Preparation training consists of face to face training based on the certification area(s) pursued. Training is focused on preparing participants to pass the TExES state required content area exam. Online book studies are required and scheduled during training.

PHASE II: PRE-EMPLOYMENT
This phase of training focuses on classroom management, instructional design and delivery, motivational techniques and other mandated curriculum topics which are necessary to promote and enhance student learning. Participants will be presented with effective, research‐based instructional and classroom management strategies to gain understanding of teaching a variety of learners. The program’s goal is to prepare candidates for success in the classroom and to be a TOPP teacher!

PHASE III: EMPLOYMENT /INTERNSHIP
The internship year is one of the most rewarding experiences in an intern’s professional development as a teacher. It is a challenging experience, providing many opportunities to develop skills in instruction, planning, assessment and reflection. Everyone associated with the Teacher Orientation and Preparation Program is committed to assisting interns to become effective TOPP teachers. Throughout the internship year, candidates participate in training, activities, and assignments, which have been carefully planned to provide a comprehensive overview of the teaching process and up‐to‐date information on effective teaching practices, classroom management and organization, and behavior management. The internship year provides classroom experience and on‐the‐job real‐world support while continuing to sharpen the intern’s professional tools.