UPLAND – Upland Unified School District celebrated the accomplishments of its newest credentialed educators and leaders during the Teacher and Administrator Induction Colloquium, held May 13 at the H.K. Baird Theater at Royal Oak Middle School in Covina.

The annual event, hosted in partnership with the Foothill Consortium, recognized teachers and administrators who successfully completed California’s state-required induction program, earning their clear credentials and demonstrating continued growth in professional practice.

This year, 11 Upland Unified teachers and three administrators completed the induction program, joining colleagues from eight school districts and eight individual schools that participate in the Foothill Consortium. The consortium supports educators as they fulfill credential requirements through individualized mentoring, coaching, reflection, and professional learning.

The colloquium featured candidate presentations and reflections that highlighted participants’ growth as educators and instructional leaders. The event also recognized the mentors and coaches whose guidance helped candidates navigate the rigorous two-year induction process.

“I am a stronger leader because of the insights I gained through intentional reflection with my mentor coach,” Valencia Elementary Principal Allyson Wisz said of completing the two-year program this year. “The induction process encouraged me to regularly examine my own practice and support teachers in doing the same in theirs, identify opportunities for improvement, and celebrate our collective growth.”

Unlike many school districts, Upland Unified fully covers the cost of induction for participating teachers and administrators, removing a financial barrier to credential completion while investing in the continued development of its workforce. District leaders are also pursuing the creation of an Upland Unified induction program and are currently in the second of five stages of state approval.

“Completing induction is a significant milestone that reflects an educator’s commitment to continuous improvement and student success,” Superintendent Dr. Lynn Carmen Day said. “We are proud of these teachers and administrators for their dedication to their profession, and we are equally grateful to the mentors who invested their time and expertise in supporting their growth. By investing in our educators, we strengthen the learning experience for every student we serve.”

The induction program is designed to bridge the gap between preliminary credentialing and long-term professional practice, providing educators with personalized support as they refine their instructional strategies, leadership skills, and ability to meet the diverse needs of students.

The May 13 colloquium served as both a celebration of achievement and a reminder of the District’s commitment to cultivating exceptional educators and leaders who will positively impact students, schools, and the broader community for years to come. 

PHOTO CAPTION:

UUSD_Induction1: Upland Unified celebrated 11 teachers and three administrators who have completed their two-year state-required induction program.