You Ask, We Answer!
Who Should apply to BTC?
Anyone who is committed to teaching in Catholic schools, wants to pursue a graduate degree, desires learning in community with other teachers, and has graduated from an undergraduate university. The Cura Community is ideal for anyone who wants the added support of living with others pursuing the same path. Your roommates understand your circumstances and can become life-long friends!
I'm interested in applying to BTC. What's my first step?
You may start your Master of Arts in Teaching - Billiken Teacher Corps: Cura Community application through the SLU School of Education. Be sure to indicate that you are applying to the BTC. Click the "Apply Now" tab on this website to get started!
I graduated from college a few years ago. Am I still eligible to apply?
While there is not an age requirement for the Cura Community, typical applicants are recent graduates of a bachelor's program. Applicants who have completed a post-grad service program (like JVC, ASC, or other CVN programs) or a few years of substitute teaching or other work experience are encouraged to apply as well.
When are applications due? When Does the Program Begin?
Priority applications are due January 25th; applications will be reviewed on a rolling basis after that date until the cohort is filled.
The program begins in early June each year. The Cura Community moves in to the BTC intentional faith community approximately one week before classes begin.
The program begins in early June each year. The Cura Community moves in to the BTC intentional faith community approximately one week before classes begin.
Can I choose where I teach?
During the application process, Cura Community applicants will be given the opportunity to indicate their desired grade level and subject area. We will do our best to match you with your ideal teaching position. However, the exact placement will be decided, in part, by the needs of our partner Catholic schools.
Will I be able to coach or serve as a club moderator as BTC member?
Yes! You are encouraged to be part of the school community. It's a great way to get to know your students!
Do I have a choice in the education courses that I take?
The members of the BTC are enrolled in a pathway that earns them a Master of Arts in Teaching degree. As BTC members are teaching while enrolled in coursework, the program is tailored to make it possible to work full time and earn a degree in two years. There is not much flexibility in the MAT Course Road Map.
Do I need to be Catholic to be a BTC member?
Applicants from any faith background and at any point in their spiritual journey are welcome to apply. BTC teachers must show openness to Ignatian Spirituality and feel comfortable living out the Gospel values in a Catholic school.
Cura Community members participate in weekly spirituality nights and two annual retreats. Many will also go to mass together on the weekends or pursue their own ways of living out their faith.
Cura Community members participate in weekly spirituality nights and two annual retreats. Many will also go to mass together on the weekends or pursue their own ways of living out their faith.
Am I required to travel to St. Louis to interview?
No. Interviews can be conducted via Zoom.
Is the BTC Right for me?
Ask Yourself:
Do I want to serve others through teaching?
Do I have some grit?
Do I have an open spirit and a big heart?
Do I have the ability to laugh at myself?
Have you studied a subject area in which I would like to teach?
Do I have some experience working in schools or with kids?
Do I think I would enjoy living in St. Louis? (Or do I already live in St. Louis?)
Have I talked about this next step in my journey with my friends or family?
If you answered YES to those questions, then we’d love to see your application!
Do I want to serve others through teaching?
Do I have some grit?
Do I have an open spirit and a big heart?
Do I have the ability to laugh at myself?
Have you studied a subject area in which I would like to teach?
Do I have some experience working in schools or with kids?
Do I think I would enjoy living in St. Louis? (Or do I already live in St. Louis?)
Have I talked about this next step in my journey with my friends or family?
If you answered YES to those questions, then we’d love to see your application!
How is the BTC Different from Other PRograms?
SPIRITUALITY. The BTC is for those interested specifically in Catholic education. Our alumni stay working in Catholic schools after they graduate.
SMALL COMMUNITY. We are a tight-knit community. This allows for building strong relationships with those in the program and lots of personalized attention.
HIGH SUPPORT. Our program staff, instructional coaches, and practicum professors are also in the same city as you. This provides for a close network of on-the-ground support to help you through your first years of teaching.
SMALL COMMUNITY. We are a tight-knit community. This allows for building strong relationships with those in the program and lots of personalized attention.
HIGH SUPPORT. Our program staff, instructional coaches, and practicum professors are also in the same city as you. This provides for a close network of on-the-ground support to help you through your first years of teaching.
WhAT if I'm already teaching in A Catholic SChool? What if I don't want to live in community?
Then our MAT Magis pathway may be right for you. Check out this website and scroll down to Pathway 2: MAT Magis.