With just under 130,000 students, Prince George's County Public Schools is the 18th largest school district in the nation and the second largest school district in the state of Maryland. There are a total of 208 schools in the district, including public charter schools: 142 elementary schools, 32 middle schools, 24 high schools, 9 special centers, and 2 vocational centers.
Fellows teach in high-need schools throughout the county, where the need for highly-qualified teachers is critical. The majority of current Fellows teach in the metropolitan area surrounding the Northeast and Southeast quadrants of Washington, DC.
A full teaching day in the Prince George's County Public Schools is about 7.5 hours inclusive of lunch. While individual school days may vary slightly, a typical school day may run from 8:20 am to 3:50 pm or 7:50 am to 3:20 pm. Additionally, Fellows will attend courses as they pursue their Standard Professional Certificate, as well as professional development activities to support their classroom efforts.
Beyond the formal school day, Fellows should expect to spend time out of class preparing lessons, grading student work, and communicating with parents and guardians. They may have after-school meetings with school staff, their grade-level or subject team, or students' family members. Most teachers will work beyond a standard 40 hour week during their first year.
The first year for any new teacher is challenging, and Fellows should anticipate an intense effort, especially at the beginning of the year.