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BEGINS: Building Educators’ Growth in Neighboring Schools

Supporting early career educators beyond graduation

At the Saint Louis University School of Education, our commitment to educators doesn’t end at graduation. BEGINS (Building Educators’ Growth in Neighboring Schools) is a professional learning initiative that supports early career teachers during their first years in the classroom.

Through individualized coaching, collaborative professional learning, and a supportive community grounded in Jesuit values, BEGINS helps new teachers who are SLU alums strengthen their instructional practice, grow in confidence, and build lasting connections with mentors and peers. By walking alongside educators beyond their degree programs, BEGINS bridges the gap between University preparation and classroom teaching — helping teachers thrive, remain in the profession, and make a lasting impact in their schools and communities.

How BEGINS Works

Begins Logo with the Building Educators’ Growth in Neighboring Schools, above Empowering new teachers, strengthening local schools
 

BEGINS provides a structured, multi-year model of professional support that blends mentorship, coaching and collaboration.

Program Features

  • Individualized coaching: Early-career teachers receive personalized coaching focused on practical strategies and classroom success.
  • Professional learning: Participants engage in evidence-based workshops that strengthen instructional skills and build professional confidence.
  • Community and mentorship: BEGINS fosters a supportive network of peers, mentors, and faculty dedicated to sharing experiences and promoting growth.

The program’s goal is to help teachers not only enter the classroom prepared but also continue developing as reflective, mission-driven professionals.

Partner Districts

BEGINS currently supports early career educators in partnership with:

  • Ritenour Public Schools
  • Maplewood Richmond Heights Public Schools
  • City Garden Montessori
  • Cardinal Ritter College Prep

Each partnership reflects a shared commitment to developing confident, effective teachers who reflect and serve their communities.

As the program grows, the School of Education seeks to expand partnerships across the St. Louis region — strengthening the local pipeline of mission-driven educators prepared to stay, teach and lead.

Why BEGINS Matters

Research shows that the first few years in the classroom are among the most challenging for new teachers. BEGINS addresses this critical stage by providing sustained, relationship-based support when it matters most.

By investing in teachers’ professional growth and well-being, BEGINS strengthens teacher retention, instructional quality, and student outcomes across the St. Louis region.

Rooted in Saint Louis University’s Jesuit mission to form men and women for and with others, BEGINS reflects the School of Education’s ongoing dedication to educator development, community engagement, and educational equity.