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Residency Characteristics

The Residency Lab’s 10 Characteristics of Effective Educator Residencies were developed to provide a shared framework for designing, strengthening, and sustaining high-quality educator residency programs. Grounded in research, practitioner expertise, and lessons learned from residency programs across California and beyond, the characteristics identify the essential elements that contribute to strong candidate preparation and long-term program success. They are intended to help educator preparation programs, school districts, county offices of education, and community partners assess their current practices, identify areas for growth, and guide continuous improvement efforts.

4 resources
Updated July 2026

Characteristics for Teachers

Characteristics for Counselors

All Residency Characteristics Resources

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All Residency Characteristics Resources — searchable and sortable resource list
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The Characteristics of Effective School Counselor Residency Programs (Overview) (opens in new tab)
The Characteristics of Effective School Counselor Residency Programs (Overview) (opens in new tab)

A foundational overview graphic presenting the ten research-based characteristics adapted for school counselor residency programs, from equitable systems to yearlong clinical practice.

Overview February 2026
Overview February 2026
The Characteristics of Effective Counselor Residency Programs (Detailed) (opens in new tab)
The Characteristics of Effective Counselor Residency Programs (Detailed) (opens in new tab)

A detailed handout adapting the ten research-based residency characteristics to school counselor programs, with descriptions and evidence indicators for design, implementation, and continuous improvement.

Handout February 2026
Handout February 2026
The Characteristics of Effective Teacher Residency Programs (Overview) (opens in new tab)
The Characteristics of Effective Teacher Residency Programs (Overview) (opens in new tab)

A foundational overview graphic presenting the ten research-based characteristics of effective California teacher residency programs for quick program design reference.

Overview February 2026
Overview February 2026
The Characteristics of Effective Teacher Residency Programs (Detailed) (opens in new tab)
The Characteristics of Effective Teacher Residency Programs (Detailed) (opens in new tab)

A comprehensive handout defining the ten research-based characteristics of effective California teacher residencies, with detailed descriptions and evidence indicators for program self-assessment.

Handout February 2026
Handout February 2026